South Africa sponsor Sasol will not renew deal for rugby World Cup

South Africa, who began their defence of their Tri-Nations title by failing to pick up a point in two defeats by the All Blacks, have suffered another setback with the loss of the sponsor Sasol from 2011.

The energy and chemicals company has announced it will not renew its £2.5m-a-year contract when it expires next year, despite the fact the Springboks will be attempting to become the first team to win back-to-back World Cups. The association with Sasol dates back to 2004.

South Africa face Australia in Brisbane on Saturday. The tight-five forwards Benn Robinson and Nathan Sharpe return for the Wallabies, along with the scrum-half Will Genia.

"The Springboks will be well motivated," the Australia coach, Robbie Deans, said. "We have watched the two games between New Zealand and South Africa and they have left our players in no doubt about the magnitude of the task that lies ahead."