The Wales wing has been battling the hamstring strain he suffered against Combined Country XV in Newcastle.
But Lions head medical officer Dr James Robson has delivered North back to the coaches for selection. However Jamie Roberts remains ‘unlikely’ and Manu Tuilagi ‘touch and go’ for the Suncorp Stadium clash.
“George was up bright and early. He came through a fitness test and I’ve never seen him in better shape,” said Lions coach Rob Howley.
“He’s available for selection at the weekend and that’s a huge fillip for us.
“We’ve looked after him for the last week and it’s a huge morale boost to have someone like George North fit for us.
“Over the last 12 months I haven’t seen him in better shape and that’s why we took the decision to get him 100 per cent physically well.”
Howley also revealed that Tommy Bowe is more likely to be available with Roberts for the second Test as the Lions’ back line injury problems start to clear. Bowe underwent surgery on a broken bone in his hand the day after the win over Queensland Reds.
“Jamie is progressing. He ran today but is unlikely to be fit for the weekend, as is Tommy Bowe. More than likely Tommy will be available for the second Test,” said Howley.
“Manu is improving every day after taking a stinger. The strength is coming back into his shoulder and obviously he’ll be touch and go.”
The North fitness boost comes days after the Qantas Wallabies received a similar lift with the news that Digby Ioane will be fit to play. The Queensland Reds wing underwent knee surgery four weeks ago and had seemed doubtful for the opening game in the three match series.
Robbie Deans is due to announce his team for the first Test on Thursday, along with opposite number Warren Gatland, although it has been reported that there willl be three new caps.
Israel Folau, Christian Lealiifano and Ben Mowen are all expected to start in a side that will feature James O’Connor at No 10 and Berrick Barnes at full back. That means there will be no starting place for Kurtley Beale.
