Lawrence Dallaglio believes that the the injury depleted Lions will still provide a stern test for the Wallabies.

Dallaglio, whose tour has been cut short by the recurrence of a knee injury, said, "I am confident that we have a group of players capable of challenging in the Test series. I am sure they will produce creditable performances in all three Tests.

"We recognised the challenge this tour presented before we came out here. With a Lions tour, you don't have the comfort of playing at home it is about coming out on top in a hostile environment."

Of the media war of words currently filling the column inches he commented, "As a group of players, we are paying very little attention to what is being said in the press. You can't afford to, the players are only interested in concentrating on what they can control, and are not paying too much attention to comments made outside the camp."

Dallaglio intends staying with the squad for Saturday's Brisbane Test opener, watching, rather than playing, any part in proceedings.

"The Test series will be a very demanding arena, and having played a lot of international rugby, I know what is required. With my leg in its current state, I don't think I would be up to what is required.

"The right decision has been made it is inappropriate to go into games when you are not 100% fit," he added. "But it hasn't put me back to square one, and I expect to make a full recovery ready for the start of the new season.

The Lions take on New South Wales Country at Coffs Harbour's 20,000-capacity International Stadium on Tuesday, with Wales centre Scott Gibbs and Ireland wing Tyrone Howe making their tour debuts after being flown out as replacements.