Wallabies centre Matt Giteau has been ruled out of next weekend’s Rugby Championship clash with Argentina due to a sternum injury he suffered during his return to the Test arena .

Giteau, who made his first Test appearance in four years in Saturday’s 24-20 win over South Africa was cleared of any serious damage after scans on his nose and chest.

Brumbies back Christian Leali’ifano has been called into the squad as a replacement for the match in Mendoza.

“I know how desperate Matthew was to play and continue to contribute to this group over the next week, his leadership and presence off the field will be missed,” Wallabies’ coach Michael Cheika said.

“He’s one of the toughest members in the squad and we all witnessed during the match just how passionate Matthew is about representing his country again.

“It’s disappointing to lose him for this round, however knowing he will be right to go for the Bledisloe series is reassuring for the group and our fans.

“In the end, the decision sits with me. It’s going to be a big year for `Gits’ and to send him over to Mendoza after a very physical test as well as a tight turnaround, just isn’t fair on him or the group.”