Illness puts Xavier Rush in doubt for Lions

Xavier Rush. Picture / Fotopress

Auckland captain Xavier Rush could have his international swan song at Eden Park against the Lions ruined by illness.

It is believed Rush is suffering from glandular fever. Tests this week will determine what has laid him low. The 27-year-old Rush, who has led both Auckland and the Blues to titles, will not figure in Wednesday's warm-up match against Counties Manukau at Pukekohe.

The illness is not expected to put Rush's final NPC season in doubt before he heads to Wales, where he has a three-year contract with Cardiff.

Auckland are hoping Rush's sterling service might get a fitting international farewell in the Lions match on Tuesday next week, and also provide some consolation after he was unable to retain his All Black berth this season.

Auckland manager Peter Thompson said: "We'll feel devastated for the guy if he misses out, after all he has done in Auckland. Here's hoping he will be okay."

Rush's loss would be a blow to Auckland, who will have just three training runs together before the Lions game.

Auckland will have its Junior All Blacks - apart from fringe test squad wing Joe Rokocoko - back on deck.

They will take 33 players to Pukekohe, including Junior All Blacks Saimone Taumoepeau, John Afoa, Jerome Kaino, Ben Atiga and Steve Devine.