Israel Folau's stunning rise in his third code is complete, with Wallabies coach Robbie Deans naming the Waratahs fullback on the right wing to face the British and Irish Lions on Saturday.

Folau will be one of three Wallabies debutants, with Christian Lealiifano and Brumbies teammate Ben Mowen also getting the nod when the side is officially unveiled on Thursday.

New Wallaby: Israel Folau will make his Wallaby debut against the Lions on Saturday. Credit:Getty Images

Folau's selection paves the way for a mouth-watering duel with George North, after the huge Lions winger was declared fit on Wednesday following a week of speculation about his readiness. Berrick Barnes has been given first crack at the No.15 jersey to provide voice and direction to back-three comrades Folau and Digby Ioane. It is thought Kurtley Beale's return to the Wallabies will come from the bench.

Despite their versatility, Hugh McMeniman and Peter Kimlin have missed out on a bench spot, with the Wallabies opting for a specialist second-rower, the Reds' Rob Simmons. It is understood a lack of rugby counted against McMeniman, and he might also have to fight off the rising challenge of Kimlin if Deans is looking for a second-rower at No.6 in the second or third Tests. Liam Gill will also start on the pine, alongside James Slipper and Sekope Kepu, who will be asked to cover the loose-head and tight-head positions respectively.