Prodigal son Justin Harrison will make is return to the Brumbies, and Super Rugby, starting at lock this Friday night against the
Western Force in Perth. Coach Andy Friend as named Harrison it would seem largely to improve on the below par line-out display the Brumbies exhibited in their last trial against the Waratahs.
Other new signings for the year Rocky Elsom, Matt Giteau and Pat McCabe have also been named to start however the word on the street is that Giteau is highly unlikely to play meaning young Matt Toomua is set to start in the 10 jersey. McCabe has been named on the wing, opposite Franky Fainifo and ahead of Alfi Mafi whilst Stirling Mortlock returns to ‘first class’ rugby in his favoured Out-side Centre position.
In the pack, Wallaby Tight Head Prop, Ben Alexander, is rushed back into the starting side, however back at Loose Head where he played most of last year for the Brumbies. Guy Shepherdson remains at Tight Head as the Brumbies seek answers to their equally misfiring scrum.
The match will also feature the completion of Josh Valentine’s personal “Provincial Grand Slam” as he joins Scott Fava as the only Australian player to play for each of the professional Super 14 franchises. What chance a Rebels contract to complete the set next year?
Afupisa Taumoepeau will also travel to Perth with the team as the 23rd man.
CA Brumbies v Western Force
Members Equity Stadium, Perth
Friday, 12 February 2010
Kick-off: 7.05pm local time (10.05pm AEDST)
15. Adam Ashley-Cooper; 14. Pat McCabe; 13. Stirling Mortlock; 12. Christian Lealiifano; 11. Francis Fainifo; 10. Matt Giteau/Matt Toomua; 9. Josh Valentine; 8. Stephen Hoiles (c); 7. George Smith; 6. Rocky Elsom; 5. Justin Harrison; 4. Mark Chisholm; 3. Guy Shepherdson; 2. Stephen Moore; 1. Ben Alexander. Reserves: 16. Huia Edmonds; 17. Salesi Ma’afu; 18. Ben Hand; 19. Mitchell Chapman; 20. Patrick Phibbs; 21. Tyrone Smith; 22. Alfi Mafi. 23. Afusipa Taumoepeau
