British and Irish Lions

Australia have been dealt yet another blow after Sekope Kepu was ruled out of Saturday's clash with New Zealand.

The Waratahs prop strained medial knee ligament during a scrum training session in Sydney earlier today.

It is unknown how long the 17-cap powerhouse will be out of action but it is the last thing Wallabies needed after losing David Pocock for the entire Rugby Championship.

James Slipper and Ben Alexander are the likely candidates to replace Kepu for the second clash with the All Blacks, following Saturday's 27-19 loss.

Michael Hooper believes the British & Irish Lions' defeat to the Brumbies has given the Qantas Wallabies a boost ahead of Saturday's first Test in Brisbane.

Less than 24 hours after losing their unbeaten record in Canberra, the British & Irish Lions were given a huge boost on arrival in Brisbane when Wales wing George North was declared fit to play in the first Test on Saturday.

Qantas Wallaby wonder scrum half Will Genia is ready to torment the British & Irish Lions and end any hopes of a first Test series win in 16 years this month.