NEW Zealand's Robbie Paul faces a race against time to be fit for Saturday's all-important final Test at Wigan after sustaining a deep gash to his right knee during the 14-14 draw at Huddersfield.

Although New Zealand have first-choice full-back David Vaealiki available, the loss of the versatile Bradford captain would be a significant boost to Britain's hopes of squaring the series.

New Zealand coach Gary Freeman will check on Paul, who had 10 stitches inserted in the wound, when the players report back for training today after a couple of days off.