Tri-Nations: Fien ineligible? Aussie news

New Zealand is in danger of being stripped of its two Tri-Nations competition points as the row over the eligibility of Queensland-born Kiwi Nathan Fien escalated today.

Fien, who was born at Mt Isa and previously represented Queensland in State of Origin, was permitted to play for the Kiwis fter saying his grandmother was born in New Zealand. But it has since been revealed it was Fien's great-grandmother who was born in New Zealand.

The sport's four-member international executive will discuss the situation - possibly overnight. If it decides Fien is not eligible to play for New Zealand the Tri-Nations sub-committee will then decide what action, if any, to take.

New Zealand reportedly threatened to abandon the tournament if they are punished.

In the Aussie camp, Jamie Lyon is expected to be named today in the Australian team for Saturday's Tri-Nations rugby league Test against Great Britain.

The Manly-bound centre has not represented the Kangaroos since 2003, but is heavily tipped to end his three-year exile and be one of up to four changes in Ricky Stuart's team for the Aussie Stadium clash.

St George Illawarra utility Ben Hornby has already been confirmed at halfback, replacing a resting Johnathan Thurston. Barnstorming forward Willie Mason is fit to return after sitting out game two of the series against New Zealand with concussion.

While Brisbane centre Brent Tate is also a possible inclusion as coach Stuart looks to get the most out of his 23-man squad after back-to-back wins over the Kiwis.