League: Key test match-ups

The Main Bout

Ruben Wiki v Adrian Morley

There are more suspensions than on the Golden Gate Bridge between these props. Top-notch, hard-hitting footballers - and leading penalty prospects. The Englishman has been out since late July for kneeing, and missed five months for various offences since joining the Sydney Roosters in 2001. There are claims he is targeted and test referee Paul Simpkins sent Morley packing last year when rival coach Steve Folkes piped up in his defence. There have been plenty of fair cops, though, and Morley (below) was sent off in a world-record 12 seconds for a high tackle against Australia in 2003. Lasting doubts - but teammates insist Morley is super fit and will stay out of strife. Bottom line: If Stuart Fielden is the prop most likely to go 80 minutes, Morley is the most likely to go off. Wikihas been trouble-free in the tests but has a rap sheet as long as the arm that "slips up" in tackles. A battle between four class props - Wiki, Roy Asotasi, Morley and Fielden - should rage.

The Lightweights (with heavyweight roles)

Stacey Jones v Sean Long

The smart money is on Jones in the control-room showdown. The ace halfback was initially below par against Australia after returning from French delights. But he lifted sharply, running like the Jones of old to set up a try in Melbourne. This series could be his test hooray and there are encouraging hints he will put on a farewell show. Jones was a defensive weak spot last week and the British, like everyone, will send runners his way. Long (right) is not a sure bet. He survived a scandal two years ago when he and test mate Martin Gleeson wagered against their depleted St Helens team. But Long has yet to pay major dividends in tests - Great Britain has lacked an iconic halfback since the Andy Gregory/Shaun Edwards years. Long's link with Danny McGuire is a plus - they beat the Kiwis in 2004. He may also thrive as the main man, now that ex-linchpin Andy Farrell has gone to lineout land. Warning: Great Britain have a deadly Long kicking game.

The Undercard

Frank Pritchard v Jamie Peacock

Test second-rower Peacock ran 10 metres to get in the headlines when he joined a fracas during the warm-up match at Newcastle. Normally he would have been banned but there's no point in trying to ruin a good test series. One wit suggested Peacock's cavalry charge to aid a smaller colleague was a throwback to his Wollongong pub bouncer days. Peacock credits his lower-grade league experience in Australia as setting his career on track. He can play at prop, which hints at the style of this tough-looking British pack. Although up to his 20th test, he is among the lesser-known British captains to arrive here. Last seen sporting bleached hair, which is not the only reason he contrasts with Pritchard. The young Kiwi is a more dynamic but also erratic footballer. Was in storming form for New Zealand A against an Australian selection last week where he sought match conditioning. If Pritchard can establish a test place, the Kiwis will be all the better for it.