Strong Brumbies side picked for Super 14 opener
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Brumbies
A Brumbies side featuring numerous Internationals have been selected for the opener against the Western Force on Friday. Wallaby captain Rocky Elsom and playmaker Matt Giteau have been named for the Brumbies despite injury concerns.
Injury concerns could however force late replacements to the powerful side selected.
Brumbies coach Andy Friend included his two star off-season recruits in a full-strength team named for the match in Perth but, while Elsom is a rated likely starter, Giteau is still in serious doubt to play against his former team.
“Matt’s still touch and go at this stage,” said Friend, who bracketed Giteau at five eighth with youngster Matt Toomua.
“You never want to leave a player like that out of the side and well be giving him every opportunity to play against his old side.
“He’s comfortable with where he’s at at the moment and the medical staff has been pleased with how it’s been progressing.
“We’ll be giving him up until the last possible minute on Friday but we’re very mindful that you don’t want to be risking someone like that should they not be 100 per cent ready to go.”
Pat McCabe has also recovered from a quad strain and will make his Super 14 debut on the right wing.
Wallabies prop Ben Alexander has been passed fit after making a quicker than anticipated recovery from a broken hand.
Former Wallabies lock Justin Harrison will play his first Super rugby match for the Brumbies since their semifinal loss to the Blues in 2003, joining Mark Chisholm in the second row.
Halfback Josh Valentine makes his first appearance against his former Force teammates.
Brumbies
Adam Ashley-Cooper, Pat McCabe, Stirling Mortlock, Christian Lealiifano, Francis Fainifo, Matt Giteau/Matt Toomua, Josh Valentine, Stephen Hoiles (capt), George Smith, Rocky Elsom, Justin Harrison, Mark Chisholm, Guy Shepherdson, Stephen Moore, Ben Alexander. Res: Huia Edmonds, Salesi Maafu, Ben Hand, Mitchell Chapman, Patrick Phibbs, Tyrone Smith, Alfi Mafi, Afusipa Taumoepeau.
– AAP
