Mortlock out of Rebels opener

Melbourne Rebels skipper Stirling Mortlock is out of their Super Rugby season opener against NSW on Friday night but star team-mate Kurtley Beale is tipped to play. The outside centre failed to overcome a calf injury suffered almost a month ago, while fullback Beale's recovery from a hamstring injury is on track for him to line up against his old side at AAMI Park. Western Force recruit Mitch Inman is likely to start in the No.13 jersey after impressing during the Rebels' trials. Melbourne, who had a first-round bye, are also set to go into the match without first-choice hooker Ged Robinson, who also has a calf injury. Former Wallaby Adam Freier, who has battled back and arm injuries over the past two seasons, is in the running to take his place along with Heath Tessman.