A distraught Lukhan Tui has told teammates he intends to step away from rugby following an ugly post-match altercation with a fan, according to Wallabies coach Michael Cheika.

Cheika claimed the incident was sparked by Tui’s sister being pushed by the supporter near the tunnel at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast, immediately following Australia’s shock 23-19 loss to Argentina on Saturday night.

Tui, whose stepfather passed away on Wednesday but still took his place in the starting team, addressed the Wallabies playing group after the match and told them he needed to take time away from rugby, Cheika said.