Schmidt insists injuries will not affect Australia ahead of first Test

JOE SCHMIDT has warned the British and Irish Lions that Australia will still be competitive in tomorrow's first Test despite the loss of Will Skelton and Rob Valetini.

- DUNCAN BECH

In a hammer blow to the Wallabies’ hopes of causing an upset in Brisbane, they have lost their two most potent ball-carrying forwards to calf injuries sustained in their training camp.

Both are expected to return for the second Test in Melbourne but following on from the loss of first choice fly-half Noah Lolesio, Australia have been hit hard on the injury front.

Schmidt, however, insists they will still be a force by drawing on the “quiet confidence” of rookie fly-half Tom Lynagh to guide the way.

When asked about the absence of Valetini and Skelton, Schmidt replied: "I'd be pretty pragmatic and I'd hope that the team are as well. We try not to base our whole game around any individual. We share the load.