The Newcastle Knights has announced an 18-man Auckland Nines squad, with Jarrod Mullen named as captain.

A total of ten of this year’s squad, including Korbin Sims, Nathan Ross, Paterika Vaivai and Tyler Randell, will get their first taste of the Nines format when the tournament kicks off on January 31.

All three Mata’utia brothers have been included in the 2015 squad while it will be the first game in red and blue for new recruits Jack Stockwell and Carlos Tuimavave.

Under 20s captain Danny Levi has also been selected after training with the NRL squad over the summer.

The Knights has been grouped in the Rangitoto pool, and will play the Parramatta Eels, Manly Sea Eagles and St George Illawarra Dragons at the Eden Park tournament.

SQUAD:

1. Sione Mata'utia

2. Jake Mamo

3. Dane Gagai

4. Chanel Mata'utia

5. Carlos Tuimavave

6. Jarrod Mullen (c)

7. Tyrone Roberts

8. Pat Mata'utia

9. Adam Clydsdale

10. Paterika Vaivai

11. Tyler Randell

12. Chris Houston

13. Robbie Rochow

14.Nathan Ross

15. Korbin Sims

16. Joseph Tapine

17. Jack Stockwell

18. Danny Levi