Brumbies Face New Era with Optimism Despite Star Departures
The ACT Brumbies are gearing up for their Super Rugby Pacific campaign with a mix of seasoned leadership and emerging talent, as they prepare to face the Western Force this Saturday. Despite a significant exodus of established Wallabies stars during the off-season and a string of key injuries, veteran prop James Slipper remains steadfast in his belief in the team’s ability to compete.
The Brumbies’ semi-final run last year was bolstered by the presence of Wallabies talents like Len Ikitau, Noah Lolesio, and Tom Hooper. However, these key players have since moved on, leaving a void in the squad. Adding to the challenge, vital players Tom Wright (knee injury) and captain Allan Alaalatoa (back injury) have been ruled out, further testing the team’s depth.
Despite these setbacks, Slipper is projecting an air of confidence, emphasising the Brumbies’ historical strength in developing talent from within. “One thing the Brumbies are pretty good at historically is bringing in new players through their own system and turning them into really good players,” Slipper told AAP. “I don’t see that being any different this year, and we’ve got some really great young players coming through.”
This philosophy is evident in the starting lineup for Saturday’s opener. Twenty-one-year-old Kadin Pritchard, a product of the Brumbies’ academy, has been elevated to the starting XV and will be tasked with filling the significant shoes of Len Ikitau in the centres. Andy Muirhead is set to make his mark at fullback, covering for the injured Tom Wright. Furthermore, Wallaby recruit Tane Edmed has been named on the bench, ready to contribute to the team’s efforts.
“We’ve obviously lost a lot of players in the off-season, so we aren’t the favourites this year which is fine by us. We’re just gonna go about our business and crack on,” Slipper remarked. He added, “But, do we have what it takes? I think so. The Brumbies are used to being the underdogs.”
For the 36-year-old Slipper, the upcoming match against the Force will mark his 198th Super Rugby appearance. This milestone brings him tantalisingly close to becoming the most capped player in the competition’s history, a record currently held by Wyatt Crockett with 202 matches. Reflecting on this potential achievement, Slipper commented, “It’s probably something I didn’t strive for as I set out on my rugby career, but it’s one of those things I’ll probably reflect on and look fondly upon.”
Western Force Bolstered by New Signings
The Western Force, their opponents on Saturday, are not to be underestimated. They too have made significant recruitment efforts and will present a formidable challenge. The Force’s lineup features new recruits Franco Molina, Nathan Hastie, and George Bridge, all set to make their debuts. Additionally, former Waratahs prop Harry Johnson-Holmes is returning to Super Rugby after an extensive layoff of nearly two years due to knee and ankle injuries.
The experienced Kurtley Beale, a former Wallaby, has been named on the bench, offering a wealth of knowledge and game-breaking ability. Youngster Mac Grealy has earned the starting fullback position for the Force.
The Western Force are particularly motivated to make a significant impact this season. After narrowly missing out on finals contention in the previous full Super Rugby competition due to a string of five consecutive losses, they will be eager to prove their mettle and secure a place in the playoffs. Their ambition, coupled with the Brumbies’ determined spirit despite their challenges, promises an intriguing season opener.
