Veteran Matt Giteau dropped from Australia's Tri-Nations opener

Veteran Matt Giteau has been dropped from the Australian squad for their Tri-Nations opener against South Africa on Saturday.

The utility man has been left out following the Wallabies' shock 32-23 defeat at the hands of Samoa in Sydney on Sunday.

Australian coach Robbie Deans was vague as to whether the 28-year-old still has a part to play in the international side.

"Matt will obviously want a role going forward, he has a role going forward. We just don't know what that will entail yet in terms of playing," Deans admitted.

Giteau, who plays club rugby for French Top 14 side Toulon, has won 91 caps for his country.