The Brumbies and Wallabies have made a significant step in consolidating their forwards stocks with the re-signing of hooker Stephen Moore and prop Ben Alexander until the end of the 2015 season.
The success of the Brumbies under Jake White in 2012 and the hunger for further honours went a long way in securing their recommitment. The plans White has put in place for the Brumbies were one factor that helped the pair decide on continuing their careers in Canberra. Signing the pair before the start of the 2013 season will help them concentrate on what will be a big year, with the Lions tour just around the corner.
Moore said the results of 2012 had reignited his desire to play on. Part his motivation for continuing was looking at the squad as a whole and how well they get on, not only on the field but also off the field. Now he is looking forward to transferring those results into success on the Super Rugby ladder. Recently retired Wallaby and friend of Moore Nathan Sharpe also had a small part in Moore’s decision, although he said reaching the same milestones as Sharpe was not on his mind.
Ben Alexander feels that he has unfinished business with the Brumbies and Wallabies, and that weighed on his mind when making his decision. The lure of the Lions tour, the Bledisloe Cup and the 2015 World Cup further down the track has left him ready to get back into playing, after taking some time off following a mentally and physically exhausting 2012 season.
