Australian forward Willie Mason has been ruled out of Saturday night's Tri Nations rugby league Test against New Zealand at Telstra Dome.

Mason is still suffering headaches after copping a heavy hit from New Zealander David Kidwell during the Tri Nations opener last weekend in Auckland.

Team doctor Hugh Hazard ruled Mason out on Friday, although he is expected to return for Australia's next match against Great Britain in two weeks' time.

Mark O'Meley will replace Mason in the Kangaroos' starting line-up on Saturday night, while Sam Thaiday has been promoted to make his international debut off the interchange bench.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP