Noble: Let the powers that be decide Fien's fate - I'm concentrating on rugby

Great Britain coach Brian Noble is determined not to let the controversy surrounding Nathan Fien's eligibility affect his team's preparations for

Saturday's Tri-Nations clash with Australia.

Queensland-born hooker Fien has played twice in the series for New Zealand after claiming he had a grandmother born in the country.

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Kiwis face points deduction

It has since emerged that Fien, in fact, had a great-grandmother that was born in New Zealand and the Kiwis could now be docked the points for their 18-14 win over GB in Christchurch on Saturday, when Fien made his first Kiwis start.

"I'd have rather had the points with a win, but rules are rules and if somebody shouldn't be in the team, it's an issue," said Noble.

"There's rules and regulations that should be written down somewhere in respect of what happens and doesn't happen, but the reality for us is we've got a Test match against Australia on Saturday and that's got to be our focus.

"We can't afford to let that be a distraction for us. I think that's one best left to the administrators to sort out."

Noble had initially called for the Lions to be handed the points but is now happy to leave the matter in the hands of the Rugby League International Federation (RLIF).

The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) had until today to provide a written submission, which the RLIF's executive committee and the Tri-Nations sub-committee will consider before reconvening tomorrow to determine Fien's eligibility and, if

necessary, what action will be taken.

"I don't know what we've got to gain from taking a step forward [with the matter]," said Noble.

"I don't think it's for us to force the issue in any way. I think we've got to get a performance under our belts at the weekend.

"We check properly in the UK, and I think, in essence, that's something New Zealand have to convince the authorities of.

"The interesting thing is that it was in the media before he played (in game two) so it's been a subject of discussion beforehand.

It needs to be gone through with a fine-tooth comb and I'm sure the right people at the right time will give the right answers.

"I hope some good answers come out from New Zealand but, if not, sometimes you've got to take things on the chin."

Australia have made five changes to the line-up that claimed a thrilling 20-15 comeback victory over the Kiwis in game two but, asked if he thought it was a weakened side, Noble replied: "You'd have to say there's still some pretty handy players in there.

"They've got some strike off the bench and they're starting big and strong as well with Willie Mason in the back row and Jamie Lyon in the centre.

"It's a very talented team, but they can do two or three of those teams and still be very strong. That's our challenge, but we're excited."