Christian Lealiifano diagnosed with leukaemia

Wallabies star Christian Lealiifano has been diagnosed with leukaemia and is currently undergoing treatment in hospital in Australia.

The 28-year-old has been a prominent member of the Wallabies side after playing 19 Tests ever since his debut in 2013 and recently was part of the Australian side that was whitewashed by England 3-0.

The news was confirmed by a press release issued by Lealiifano's Super Rugby club Brumbies.

Brumbies chief executive Phil Thomson expressed shock over the news and has ensured complete support for Lealiifano.

"At the moment it's just a matter of ensuring Christian receives the best care and support he can at this time," Thomson said in a statement on the club's official website.

"He is one of the most respected players within this group and this news has come as a huge shock to all of our players, coaches and staff.

"Everyone knows that Christian is an amazing young man, an important member of this team and of the Canberra community.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Christian and his family at this time."

Australian Rugby Union chief executive Bill Pulver described Lealiifano as an "outstanding young man" and has promised support to the Auckland born centre and his family throughout the treatment process.

"We were shocked to receive the news of Christian's diagnosis yesterday and our thoughts are firmly with him as he begins his treatment," Pulver said in a statement from Brazil.

"Anyone who has ever had any involvement with Christian knows he is an outstanding young man, as well as being an exceptionally talented rugby player, and the ARU will do whatever it can to support Christian and his family now and throughout his treatment.

"I know that everyone involved in our game will rally behind Christian and his Wallabies and Brumbies team-mates through this difficult time."