James Slipper signs new deal with Super Rugby record within reach

James Slipper stands on the cusp of history, signing a headline-grabbing contract extension with the ACT Brumbies for the 2026 season. ‘Slipps’ has played 195 Super Rugby matches during a decorated career, leaving the prop just seven appearances shy of the all-time record.

Rugby World Cup winner Wyatt Crockett made more than 200 appearances for the Crusaders from 2006 to 2018. Other than Slipper, former Wallabies skipper Stephen Moore is the top-ranked Australian with 177 games from 2003 to 2017.

With the all-time appearance record within reach, whether Slipper would re-commit to another season with the Brumbies remained a mystery for a while, as the British & Irish Lions Series loomed as a potential swansong sendoff for one of the greats.

But in a big boost for both the Brumbies and Australian rugby as a whole, Slipper has decided to go around for another season, with the most-capped Wallaby in history signing a fresh deal with the Super Rugby Pacific giants.

“When there was an option on the table of playing another season for the Brumbies, I couldn’t say no,” Slipper said in a statement.

“I’m extremely grateful to the club for providing me with the opportunity back in 2018 and I want to continue to repay the faith that’s been shown in me.

“I love representing this club and being a part of this group. It’s an incredible place to play footy and I enjoy living in Canberra.

“My body is still good and I feel the fittest that I have done in a long time. I feel like I am still playing at a high level and contributing to the team. As long as I can do that, I will keep giving my all for the Brumbies.”

Slipper led by example as the Wallabies ushered in their new under coach Joe Schmidt in 2024, with the prop handed the captaincy ahead of the second Test against Warren Gatland’s Wales during the July internationals.

After starting against Wales in both Sydney and Melbourne, Slipper shifted to the bench for Tests against South Africa, Argentina and New Zealand. Slipper continued to provide impact during the Spring Tour, before returning to the run-on side against Ireland in Dublin.

Slipper has shown no signs of slowing down back in club land with the Brumbies, starting 11 of 12 in Super Rugby Pacific to date. Among those performances, Slipper played a mammoth 75 minutes away to the Queensland Reds in round nine.

“Slipps is the ultimate professional, with an incredible work ethic. He is a world-class player who continues to deliver for us season after season,” Larkham said.

“He has taken his form to another level this campaign, he has been outstanding. His set-piece, defence, carrying and leadership have proved important for the team.

“The experience he brings to the forward pack cannot be understated, mentoring young players in the group who regularly ask for his advice.

“We’re delighted that he has decided to prolong his career in Canberra with the Brumbies.”