Webb gets royal treatment from England
It was full rock star treatment for Kiwis fullback Brent Webb who galloped onto the training field as planned for Friday's centenary rugby league Test.
Limousines, massages, first-class flights... there was little spared to ensure a smooth journey from Cardiff, where Webb played for Leeds on Sunday morning (NZT), to Sydney where the Kangaroos await at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
He was whisked to London by limousine, which cost around STG350 ($A730), slept at a Heathrow airport hotel, received a massage the following morning then boarded the first-class section.
After a 24-hour flight he arrived in Sydney at 8pm on Monday night and joined the team for training on Tuesday.
"They really looked after me and made sure I was comfortable on the way over so I feel pretty good today," Webb said.
"I've done it in the Tri-Nations where we've played then travelled and had to back up the next week. It's not that new to me, so I'm just keen to get out there and get stuck in."
Given the effort made to secure Webb's services it was hardly surprising.
The Rugby League International Federation (RLIF) insisted Leeds release Webb after they initially refused, saying he was required for their Challenge Cup fifth round match against Harlequins.
"I was put in a bit of a hard spot but it was sorted out for me. I told Stephen (Kearney) I wanted to be here from day one, that's why the NZRL fought so hard and I'm glad to be here.
"I left it to the club and the RLIF. I wanted to stay as far away from it as I could and the eventually the decision was made for everyone.
"I left with the club's blessing and I'm looking forward to getting back there next week."
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