League: Lockyer out of Centenary test

The Kangaroos have lost their star playmaker for Friday night's Centenary test against the Kiwis.

Skipper Darren Lockyer has been forced out of Friday's big match because of a knee injury.

Lockyer has struggled since making his return from a full knee reconstruction this season. He said he will now get a scope done on his knee so he will be out for an indefinite period.

The Broncos five-eighth received the bad news after the Australian team medical at Coogee. He is also in doubt for the opening State of Origin match later this month.

Cronulla Sharks utility Greg Bird will move to five-eighth, while Melbourne Storm back-rower Michael Crocker has been brought into the 17-man squad.

- NEWSTALK ZB