The grand previous man of Australian rugby, James Slipper will play on with the Brumbies in 2026 after inking a one-year extension to stay within the nationwide capital.
Slipper, 35, will return to Canberra subsequent 12 months to contest his eighth season with the two-time champions, after making his Tremendous Rugby debut for the Reds manner again in 2010.
The veteran Wallabies prop is poised to grow to be simply the second Australian to face the British & Irish Lions in two separate sequence, in July, having been part of the squad that misplaced 2-1 in 2013.
James O’Connor, who’s having fun with an analogous late profession renaissance, may but be a part of him in that endeavour, however it’s Slipper who may set a brand new mark for the Tremendous Rugby video games file, at present held by former Crusaders prop Wyatt Crockett [202].
Slipper sits on 195 Tremendous Rugby appearances forward of this weekend’s conflict, coincidentally in opposition to the Crusaders, and can add at the very least yet another recreation past that, offering he stays match, with the Brumbies already having secured a finals berth.
“When there was an choice on the desk of enjoying one other season for the Brumbies, I could not say no,” Slipper stated by way of a Brumbies’ media launch.
“I am extraordinarily grateful to the membership for offering me with the chance again in 2018 and I wish to proceed to repay the religion that is been proven in me.
“I really like representing this membership and being part of this group. It is an unbelievable place to play footy and I get pleasure from residing in Canberra.
“My physique continues to be good and I really feel the fittest that I’ve achieved in a very long time. I really feel like I’m nonetheless enjoying at a excessive stage and contributing to the workforce. So long as I can do this, I’ll preserve giving my all for the Brumbies.”
Whereas Slipper will play on with the Brumbies, he’s but to point whether or not he would additionally proceed his Check profession with the Wallabies.
Already probably the most capped Wallaby of all time, having surpassed George Gregan final 12 months, the 143-Check veteran had beforehand advised the Lions sequence may show his worldwide swansong.
However given Australia’s comparatively skinny solid of loosehead props, and Slipper’s potential to play on each side of the scrum, he may but transfer previous the 150-cap mark if he continues to the Rugby Championship and past.
“Slipps is the last word skilled, with an unbelievable work ethic. He’s a world-class participant who continues to ship for us season after season,” Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham stated.
“He has taken his type to a different stage this marketing campaign, he has been excellent. His set-piece, defence, carrying and management have proved vital for the workforce.
“The expertise he brings to the ahead pack can’t be understated, mentoring younger gamers within the group who commonly ask for his recommendation.
“We’re delighted that he has determined to lengthen his profession in Canberra with the Brumbies.”
