Brumbies name James Slipper for 200th Super Rugby appearance

Yet more history awaits James Slipper in round two of the Super Rugby Pacific season, with the ex-Wallabies stalwart in line for his 200th Super Rugby game.

Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham has opted for an ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ approach to his selections for round two after round one’s 56-24 win over the Western Force, which has his side sitting pretty atop the table early in the season.

There is no change to matchday 23 to report, with the stars of Saturday’s win all rewarded for their efforts with re-selection.

For Slipper, the milestone places him just two games shy of Wyatt Crockett’s all-time record for Super Rugby caps, with 202.

“He is one of the most respected players in Australian rugby, and reaching 200 Super Rugby games is a huge achievement,” Larkham said of his veteran prop.

“He continues to set the standard with how he prepares, how he trains, and how he competes.”

The Brumbies sent a message with their round one performance, squashing any doubts that may have arisen due to some key personnel losses over the offseason.

“The season is underway, and we’re confident, but we remain focused on improving and taking our performance to the next level,” Larkham added.

“The season can be a grind, and we need to make sure our whole squad is fit and firing when it counts.”

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

4

Draws

0

Wins

1

Average Points scored

32

27

First try wins

40%

Home team wins

60%

ACT Brumbies team to play Crusaders 

1. James Slipper
2. Billy Pollard
3. Rhys van Nek
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

Finishers 

16. Liam Bowron
17. Blake Schoupp
18. Tevita Alatini
19. Toby Macpherson
20. Luke Reimer
21. Klayton Thorn
22. Tane Edmed
23. Hudson Creighton

Players unavailable for selection 

Allan Alaalatoa, back
Lachlan Lonergan, knee
Tom Wright, knee