Australia and New Zealand will put the looming World Cup out of their minds tonight as they vie for one of rugby's greatest prizes.

As holder of the trans-Tasman trophy since 1998, the Wallabies only have to win at Telstra Stadium or in the second clash next month in Auckland to retain the trophy.

Australian skipper George Gregan says his side needs the win for confidence ahead of the October-November World Cup, where the two countries are on target for a semi-final meeting at the same venue.

The Wallabies have had disappointing losses to England and then in the opening Tri-Nations against South Africa, and carry extra pressure with no Australian side losing three Tests in succession since 1995.

Kick-off is at 7pm AEST.

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