Australia flanker Lukhan Tui set to miss clash against South Africa after altercation with fan
Australia head coach Michael Cheika
©PA
Australia head coach Michael Cheika confirmed that flanker Lukhan Tui will not feature in the upcoming Rugby Championship clash against South Africa following an altercation with a fan at the end of the game against Argentina.
Emotions went high in Gold Coast on Saturday after the Wallabies went on to suffer a 19-23 defeat against Argentina - their first against the Pumas since 1983 and when the players mingled with the spectators at the end of the game, it is reported that a fan began to abuse Australian players and even was seen pushing Tui's sister.
Clearly miffed with the incident, Tui, who had lost his stepfather last week involved in a scuffle with the fan before the latter was eventually removed.
Confirming the news on the 21-year-old, Cheika said Tui had requested time-off from the game for the remainder of the year.
“I’d say it’s unlikely yeah based on what we spoke about last night,” Cheika said.
“He’s had a big week, a pretty big week in someone’s life and this happens.
“Whatever post match isn’t in the forefront of his mind right now.
“His stepfather has just passed away and I think that’s a time where he needs to just be with his family and be together.”
Australia are currently languishing at the bottom of the Rugby Championship table with a solitary win from four games and will face South Africa next in Port Elizabeth on 29th September.
