James Slipper shares 'mixed emotions' after making Wallabies history

There are now three players in rugby’s ultra-exclusive 150 Test club: Alun Wyn Jones, Sam Whitelock, and James Slipper. Celebrations for the new addition Slipper’s milestone over the weekend were, however, muted after another Bledisloe Cup defeat.

The Wallabies stalwart may be in his 16th season of Test rugby, but he is yet to lift the Cup contested by the trans-Tasman rivals. The loss was also a heavy blow to Australia’s Rugby Championship ambitions.

While the result was front of mind for the 36-year-old post-game, questions on how it feels to reach such a rare milestone prompted some reflection.

“Mixed emotions,” Slipper replied. “Gutted with the result, but in terms of the 150, I’m super proud, humbled. I’m a little bit surprised I actually made it there.”

Points Flow Chart

New Zealand win +9

Time in lead

78

Mins in lead

0

98%

% Of Game In Lead

0%

74%

Possession Last 10 min

26%

7

Points Last 10 min

0

A 150th Test cap was awarded at Eden Park, and while Slipper wasn’t sure where he would keep or display such a prized possession, he had a few others to keep ot company.

The 36-year-old isn’t sure exactly what the future holds, but has no interest in charging ahead for the sake of dethroning Welshman Alun Wyn Jones’ 160 international appearance record.

Whether 2025 spells the end or not, though, will be determined by his team. Slipper said there was potential for another run in 2026, but would avoid, at all costs, announcing his retirement only to be lured back into the fold, à la Nic White.

“That’s what I don’t want to do, come out and retire and then potentially run out in another one,” Slipper laughed. “I’m here for the rest of the year, but whether I’m needed or not, that’s probably a team decision.”

Regardless of Slipper’s potential inclusion, the Wallabies’ immediate future looks bright. Young stars are shining, and the game is experiencing a wave of renewed support Down Under thanks to a return to competitiveness in the global standings.

“The last 18 months have been really good for this Wallaby group. A lot of work’s gone in, a lot of work from Joe and the staff, and also the players.

“We’ve always known that the support’s there for us, especially back in Australia; it’s probably just been a little bit hard for them to support us over the last so many years.

“For us to get them back on side and proud of their team is one of our goals, and tonight, the fight was there. I’m sure the fans will be proud of the team’s efforts tonight.

“The one thing I know is that that team’s going to go forward in the years to come and be really strong and be what Australian rugby needs to be.”