DARREN Lockyer has become the second high-profile Australian to pull out of the All Golds game at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on October 20.

Former Wolves player Andrew Johns had originally been scheduled to take the role of Dally Messenger - the Australian who went on tour with the Kiwis 100 years ago - in the commemorative international match against the Northern Union.

But Johns was forced to retire through injury in April and last week Lockyer, who is regarded by most as currently the best player in the world, was announced as his replacement.

Just days later, though, Lockyer has damaged cruciate ligaments playing for Brisbane in the NRL and has been ruled out of the rest of the season and the All Golds match.

Lockyer has expressed his immense disappointment at having to pull out of the game and another replacement will now have to be sought, with Wigan's Trent Barrett one of the names previously linked with the role.

Other high-profile possibilities may include Warrington-bound Matt King and half back Johnathan Thurston.

Kiwi rugby union stars have also been invited to play for the All Golds.

Ma'a Nonu keen to be involved but Carlos Spencer has not confirmed his appearance yet and Tana Umaga is unavailable.