Scott Sio and Christian Lealiifano ruled out of Australia's Rugby Championship opener

Australia have suffered injury blows ahead of the Rugby Championship opening game against South Africa in Johannesburg with Scott Sio and Christian Lealiifano ruled out of the encounter.

Lealiifano, who was recalled since he last featured for the Wallabies in 2016 has suffered a shoulder injury while Sio has adductor problem as both will return to their home for rehabilitation.

Apart from the duo, Tom Robertson has also suffered an ankle injury during training earlier this week and will undergo a scan to assess the extent of the damage.

Australia head coach Michael Cheika has also released Jack Maddocks and Rob Valetini back to their club while Marika Koroibete will remain with his wife as they are expecting the birth of their second child.

Following the clash against the Springboks, Australia will also face Argentina and New Zealand in the remainder of the Rugby Championship tournament on 27th July and 10th August respectively.