The grand outdated man of Australian rugby, James Slipper will play on with the Brumbies in 2026 after inking a one-year extension to stay within the nationwide capital.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, might but be part of him in that endeavour, however it’s Slipper who might set a brand new mark for the Tremendous Rugby video games report, at the moment 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 one more sport past that, offering he stays match, with the Brumbies already having secured a finals berth.
“When there was an possibility 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 need to proceed to repay the religion that is been proven in me.
“I like representing this membership and being part of this group. It is an unimaginable place to play footy and I take pleasure in residing in Canberra.
“My physique continues to be good and I really feel the fittest that I’ve accomplished in a very long time. I really feel like I’m nonetheless enjoying at a excessive stage and contributing to the crew. So long as I can try this, I’ll hold 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 instructed the Lions sequence may show his worldwide swansong.
However given Australia’s comparatively skinny solid of loosehead props, and Slipper’s means to play on each side of the scrum, he might but transfer previous the 150-cap mark if he continues to the Rugby Championship and past.
“Slipps is the final word skilled, with an unimaginable 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 essential for the crew.
“The expertise he brings to the ahead pack can’t be understated, mentoring younger gamers within the group who repeatedly ask for his recommendation.
“We’re delighted that he has determined to delay his profession in Canberra with the Brumbies.”
