Champion halfback George Gregan is out of Australia's upcoming tour of Europe due to nerve damage in his neck and shoulder.

The injury was suffered during the final Tri-Nations clash against South Africa in Durban late last month. Doctors said Gregan risked long-term damage if he did not rest for up to four months.

"This is the first time I have been unable to play because of injury so I guess I have had a pretty good run," Gregan said. "Touring Europe is always a fantastic experience and I am really disappointed that I have been forced out of the squad.

"The doctors have told us that I would be risking long term damage if I was to insist on touring so there really wasn't a choice involved. With the proper rest and treatment I am confident I will be back to peak fitness for the start of next year's AAMI Super 12."

Gregan's withdrawal opens the door for Queensland Reds halfback Sam Cordingley to gain some long-awaited international exposure after patiently sitting on the bench for seven Tests as Gregan confirmed his status as the world's leading halfback. Former Wallaby Chris Whittaker, of the Waratahs, has been called into the squad.

Cordingley managed to get all of five minutes on the field during those seven Tests, and earned a reputation as a professional singer by spending more time on the field singing Australia's national anthem than actually playing.

The short tour starts on October 28 against a French Barbarians side at Bayonne, followed by a World Cup final rematch against France at Stade de France on November 4; Scotland at Murrayfield on November 11 and finally England at Twickenham on November 18.