NEW Zealander Gary Mercer made three appearances in the 1989-1992 World Cup series for his country while on Warrington Wolves' books.

He appeared on the wing for the Kiwis in a win against France in Carcassonne just after signing for The Wire.

But Warrington saw that his workaholic style was more suited to the back row and made a successful conversion to the pack that eventually led to him starting in the back row for the Kiwis against Australia in Brisbane in 1991 in their penultimate game of the series.

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Mercer had been a substitute a month earlier in a victory against France in Christchurch.

He had three seasons with Warrington before joining Leeds in 1992, representing the club in the Challenge Cup Final defeat against Wigan at Wembley in 1990 as well as the Regal Trophy Final success against Bradford at Headingley in 1991.

Mercer returned to Wilderspool for the 2001 season after leaving Halifax as their player-coach.