IRISH International Rules selector Kevin O’Brien has warned against underestimating Mick Malthouse’s young and inexperienced touring Australians ahead of the upcoming two-test series.

The Iseq has had a mildly posititve morning after a 10.2 point rise to stand at 2,862.40 by 11am.

The Irish stock Exchange has had a positive morning after the index saw its price go up 64.88 points, 3.19%, to 2,099.32.

KIERAN O’BRIEN is expected to be back on court tomorrow night when DART Killester defend their unbeaten record against Belfast Star at the IWA gymnasium in Clontarf.

IRISH International Rules manager Sean Boylan is concerned about the ability of his side to adapt to the interchange rule in Friday night’s opening test against Australia, (Perth, RTÉ Two, 11.10am).

The Dublin Stock Exchange saw a sharp dip this morning despite a soaring performance from metal exploration firm Ovoca Resources.

Leinster Flanker Keith Gleeson faces a six-month spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a broken leg.

Paddy Power and RTE have announced a new broadcast sponsorship deal which will see the bookmaker sponsor all live horse racing televised on RTE.

ANN HESKIN has been nominated president-elect of the Irish Ladies’ Golf Union. She will take over the presidency from Ita Butler in 2005.

NEWSPAPER advertising revenue dropped 12% in the first six months of the year from a record €151m in 2001 to €133m.

Tottenham's Gary Doherty has damaged ankle ligaments rather than suffered a fracture, as was initially suspected.