Gold Coast Suns duo Charlie Ballard and Mitch Riordan have been struck down with long-term injuries.

According to AFL.com.au, Ballard underwent a right shoulder reconstruction last week and will miss about three months.

Riordan suffered an ACL injury as he was preparing for match simulation on Friday, likely ruling him out for most of 2020.

It's a cruel double-injury blow for the Suns on the eve of the season, as they prepare for a practice match against Brisbane on Saturday, February 15