Mortlock out of Blues clash

CANBERRA - Brumbies centre Stirling Mortlock has been ruled out of his side's Super 14 rugby match against the Blues in Auckland on Friday.

Mortlock had been cleared to play this week after a neck and shoulder injury saw him fail to return to the field after halftime in the Brumbies' win over the Sharks last Saturday.

However, the Wallabies centre will now be rested this weekend as a precautionary measure.

Mortlock's place will be taken by Tyrone Smith who will pair with the in-form Christian Lealiifano in the Brumbies' midfield.

- AAP