THE Wallabies have rallied around cancer-stricken teammate Christian Lealiifano, with coach Michael Cheika declaring he is “up for it” in his battle with leukaemia.

Messages of support have flowed from around the world after the shocking news of Lealiifano’s diagnosis was revealed on Sunday, and some of the Wallaby players managed to visit him in hospital before joining camp in Terrigal on Sunday afternoon.

“He’s up for it, no doubt about it,” Cheika said.

“The lads have been in contact with him, a few boys have been to see him already, he’s right up for it, I am really positive for him.

“I just believe straight away he’s got the right attitude.”

The 28-year-old Lealiifano, who welcomed his first child just two months ago, fell ill last week and after being hospitalised he was given the sombre diagnosis.

But Cheika said he knows Lealiifano well enough to be confident he can overcome the cancer.

“I believe he is going to get through, and get through well, he is a tough guy,” Cheika said.

“I am backing him 100 per cent. Whatever he needs, we will provide, be it friendship, support, whatever it is.

“We’re right behind him, that’s the key thing.”

Wallabies captain Stephen Moore, who is co-captain of the Brumbies alongside Lealifano, said the popular player will have his teammates’ support throughout his entire journey.

“As was everyone, I was very shocked to hear the news, Christian is a teammate and friend to all of us,” Moore said.

“He has got a big fight ahead of him, he knows we’re hear to support him.

“We’ve got to make sure to stay positive right through his whole treatment.”

The All Blacks, Socceroos, and British & Irish Lions were among the sporting organisations to express support for Lealiifano on social media, while individual messages were also posted by rugby stars including Sonny Bill Williams, Leigh Halfpenny, George North, Jamie Roberts, former All Blacks skipper Tana Umaga and former Springboks captain John Smit.