British and Irish Lions

Burger had an operation to repair torn ligaments in his right knee a month ago, and this week he started running for the first time.

At his current rate of recovery, Burger is set to be back in action against Italy on June 21.

"I'm feeling fine," Burger told www.superrugby.co.za. "I just can't wait to get back."

Hookers Schalk Brits and JP Pietersen have also resumed training with the squad.

Qantas Wallabies head coach Robbie Deans says he picked his Test team for Saturday's opening international based on how his side plans to play rather than on what The British & Irish Lions will bring to the table.

Warren Gatland says he and his British & Irish Lions Test team are fully aware of the size of the threat posed by Qantas Wallabies wing Israel Folau this weekend.

Less than four kilometres away from the Suncorp Stadium, venue for the opening Test between the British & Irish Lions and Qantas Wallabies on Saturday, lies the grave of the man who took the starring role in the first international between the two teams in 1899.