NRL: NZ Warriors v Penrith PanthersKickoff: 8pm Friday, 7 AugustGo Media Stadium, AucklandLive blog updates on RNZDeparting NZ Warriors half Luke Metcalf has been recalled to the starting line-up for their crucial NRL home clash with Penrith Panthers on Friday.Incumbent halfback Te Maire Martin, who left last week's win against the Gold Coast Titans early, apparently aggravated a hamstring injury at training this week and has been ruled out 24 hours from kickoff at Auckland's Go Media Stadium.Metcalf, 27, enjoyed a breakout season in 2025, until he suffered a knee injury that ended his campaign and delayed his 2026 return.Over the summer, he extended his contract with the club, but in his absence, Tanah Boyd consolidated his grip on the No.7 jersey and, uncertain of his future with the Warriors, Metcalf sought an early release and signed with St George-Illawarra Dragons for 2027.Although Boyd also suffered a season-ending knee injury, Martin was promoted into the halfback position and has held it since Round 11, impressing with his form and also signing a contract extension for 2027.Metcalf has played just two first-grade games this season - both losses - and tweaked a hamstring against Cronulla Sharks in April. Coach Andrew Webster has resisted calls to bring him back during a mid-season slump that saw four defeats over seven games.Metcalf has turned out for the club reserves in NSW Cup and occupied a spot on the interchange bench, without being required to take the field.Against tabletoppers Penrith, Metcalf will start alongside Chanel Harris-Tavita in the halves, with centre Adam Pompey promoted to the bench.