The continuing misfortunes of Andrew Mehrtens and Jonah Lomu continue to dominate the build-up to New Zealand’s Tri-Nations clash with Australia on Saturday.

John Mitchell returned to his strongest possible line-up for New Zealand’s twin assault on the Bledisloe Cup and the world number one ranking this weekend.

Ireland go into tomorrow’s Test against world champions Australia in Perth brimming with confidence despite a brewing selection row.

THE Wallabies arrive in Ireland today bolstered by replacements, winger Mark Bartholomeusz and hooker Brendan Cannon, after taking a battering in their 17-6 win over Argentina in the opening rugby international of their four-match tour.

The Wallabies have named three uncapped players in their squad of 27, for the November tour of Ireland, Argentina, England and Italy.

The Australian Rugby Union have ordered winger Ben Tune to attend an Independent Anti-Doping Tribunal in Sydney next Monday.

Australia blew open the 2002 Tri-Nations title race, and retained the Bledisloe Cup once again, as Matt Burke rediscovered his kicking boots.

Wendell Sailor has been dropped from Australia's squad for the Tri-Nations clash with New Zealand.

Injury worries forced Australian selectors to name an expanded 26-man squad for the opening Tri Nations clash with New Zealand in Christchurch on July 13.

Graham Henry can expect an Australian Rugby Union apology following a beer-spraying incident after the Lions’ tour opener against Western Australia in Perth.

Australia have announced a 24-man Australia A squad to play the Lions in the Bundaberg Rum Rugby Series match at Gosford on June 19.

Duncan McRae will relaunch his rugby career against the Lions tomorrow after firing a parting shot at Premiership under-achievers Saracens.