Lions 2013: Australia's Kurtley Beale doubtful for series

Australia back Kurtley Beale could miss the series against the British and Irish Lions after taking a break from rugby to resolve personal issues.

The 24-year-old was suspended by his club, the Melbourne Rebels, for last weekend's clash with the Blues after breaching 'behavioural guidelines'.

It was the second time this season Beale's conduct has been questioned.

He returned to training in April after undertaking a five-week programme to deal with alcohol-related issues.

A Rebels statement read: "Kurtley will take an indefinite leave of absence from playing rugby to seek assistance in resolving personal issues.

"He has voluntarily entered a private health facility in order to undertake counselling for ongoing issues. Any future selection will be dependent upon successful completion of his treatment programme.

"The club asks the media to respect his privacy at this time."

Beale's last incident saw him suspended following an altercation with Rebels captain Gareth Delve and team-mate Cooper Vuna on the team bus following a 64-7 defeat against the Sharks in Durban in March.

The first Lions Test takes place on June 22 in Brisbane before matches in Melbourne and Sydney.