Eric Grothe helped Parramatta win the Minor Premiership

The Newcastle scrum-half was ruled out of the series after aggravating a knee injury in Australia's 28-26 win over New Zealand in Auckland on Friday.

"It's been great to be in the Australia team again but the injury isn't one I can overcome in a few weeks," he said.

Johns had a total reconstruction on his right knee last season and was ruled out for much of 2004 as a result.

After viewing the results of the scans, Newcastle Knights doctor Neil Halpin and Australia doctor Hugh Hazard agreed the scrum-half should not take part in the tour.

"Luckily it's the sort of thing that isn't going to stop me being ready for the Knights next year but it's really disappointing to have to pull out of the tour and I wish the blokes all the best," added Johns.

I'm not 21 now, I'm 31, so I can't be pushing myself when I'm injured Andrew Johns

"Get it cleaned up now and it might take a couple of months and I'll be all right for training maybe in December or January, and then look forward to a good year next year for the Knights.

"I'd love to get out there again, but I've just got to be smart about it. I'm not 21 now, I'm 31, so I can't be pushing myself when I'm injured."

The Kangaroos fly to England on Thursday for the British-based part of the Tri-Nations.

Australia coach Wayne Bennett has experienced duo Trent Barrett and Craig Gower already in the squad to partner captain Darren Lockyer at half-back.

The uncapped Scott Prince is also in the touring party as back-up.

Johns told Australia's Sunday Telegraph newspaper last week that he had been struggling with the injury in the Kangaroos' two Tests against New Zealand.

Feature: Dream debut

He came over from Australia to play for Super League side Warrington towards the end of the Super League season, and impressed during the State of Origin games.