John Kelly has lost his fitness battle and is withdrawn from the Ireland squad to tour New Zealand and Australia this month. The utility back injured his shoulder playing for Munster.

He was attended to and monitored by Irish medical staff at this week's training camp in Limerick but coach Eddie O'Sullivan ruled the player out and has called Anthony Horgan into the squad as cover.

All Blacks assistant Steve Hansen believes Ireland could prove tougher opposition than the British and Irish Lions.

The return to form of Brian O'Driscoll and Paul O'Connell will significantly boost the Triple Crown winners' hand, he says.

"They are probably tougher because like anything in life you pick up experiences that make you a better person and they will have the experience of suffering defeat (with the Lions)," Hansen said.

"Because of their experience with the Lions, they will have a really strong resolve to come out here and perform and get themselves to a level for a test match win."

The All Blacks take on O'Sullivan's side in Hamilton on June 10th and in Auckland on June 17th. New Zealand humiliated Ireland 45-7 on their Grand Slam tour of Europe at the end of last year.

New Zealand management believe O'Driscoll's recovery from a shoulder injury picked up early in the 2005 Lions tour could be crucial.

The All Blacks whitewashed the Lions 3-0 in last year's tour.

"He's the best centre in the world I think," assistant coach Wayne Smith said.  "I think he made the difference when he came back for Ireland, I think he looks a more well-rounded player.

"He's always been a beast in attack and now he is in defence. He's an extraordinary player and hopefully we'll see the best of him."