Another milestone for James Slipper as Brumbies eye derby win

Super Rugby history-maker James Slipper will celebrate another milestone this week after being named in the ACT Brumbies starting side to face the NSW Waratahs, in what is a double-header with the Wallaroos versus Fijiana in Canberra.

Slipper became the all-time appearance leader in Super Rugby history against the Chiefs last weekend, with the Brumbies completing a remarkable comeback to win that match. ‘Slips’ broke the record previously held by former Crusaders prop Wyatt Crockett.

As the most-capped Wallaby ever and now the all-time leader in Super Rugby appearances, Slipper is no stranger to history-making moments. But the prop will join an exclusive club this weekend by becoming a Brumbies centurion.

Slipper played more than 100 matches for the Queensland Reds before making the move to the capital ahead of the 2019 season. The 36-year-old will suit yet again against the Tahs, with Billy Pollard and Darcy Breen the other starting front-rowers.

Lachie Shaw and Cadeyrn Neville are the two locks, while former Australia U20s captain Toby Macpherson will provide cover off the bench. Two-time John Eales Medallist Rob Valetini joins Rory Scott and in-form No. 8 Charlie Cale in the loose forwards.

Captain Ryan Lonergan partners Declan Meredith in the halves, with Wallabies fly-half Tane Edmed named on the bench. David Feliuai joins Kadin Pritchard in the halves, while Hudson Creighton lines up in the replacements.

Paris Olympian Corey Toole and Ollie Sapsford are the starting wingers, with Andy Muirhead rounding out the First XV at fullback.

“The crowd was outstanding for us last week, they were loud and created a great atmosphere,” coach Stephen Larkham said.

“The fans who have turned up this season have definitely got their money’s worth, and we want to keep putting on performances that bring more people through the gates.”

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

4

Draws

0

Wins

1

Average Points scored

34

24

First try wins

80%

Home team wins

80%

The Brumbies sit third on the Super Rugby Pacific standings after six rounds, behind only the ladder-leading Hurricanes and Blues. This Australian derby is due to kick off at 7:35 pm AEDT on Friday evening.

ACT Brumbies to take on NSW Waratahs

1. James Slipper*
2. Billy Pollard
3. Darcy Breen
4. Lachie Shaw
5. Cadeyrn Neville
6. Rob Valetini
7. Rory Scott
8. Charlie Cale
9. Ryan Lonergan (c)
10. Declan Meredith
11. Corey Toole
12. David Feliuai
13. Kadin Pritchard
14. Ollie Sapsford
15. Andy Muirhead

Replacements

16. Liam Bowron

17. Blake Schoupp

18. Tevita Alatini

19. Toby Macpherson

20. Luke Reimer

21. Klayton Thorn

22. Tane Edmed

23. Hudson Creighton

*100^th Brumbies match