Brumbies spring round one surprises

Thu, Feb 22, 2018, 1:12 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
There's been plenty of change at the Brumbies heading into the 2018 Super Rugby season. New faces, a new coach and the return of two superstars bringing a renewed optimism to Canberra.

Wallabies prop Scott Sio will miss the Brumbies' season opener, in a lineup that features a few surprises from coach Dan McKellar.

Ben Alexander and Allan Alaalatoa will team up in the front row for their match against the Sunwolves, with Sio nursing a 'minor niggle' back in Canberra.

Richie Arnold has usurped his twin Rory for his debut Brumbies start, with the latter on the pine in Tokyo.

Tom Cusack is enjoying a super NRC season. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart WalmsleyCanberra Vikings captain and 2016 Olympian Tom Cusack will have the first chance to take the seven jersey as David Pocock recovers from knee surgery, with Lochie McCaffrey on the bench.

Cusack will combine with Rob Valetini and breakout 2017 star Isi Naisarani in the backrow in the opening clash.

Chance Peni will make his Brumbies debut on the wing, teaming up with Wallabies speedster Henry Speight on the edges, with Tom Banks at 15.

The Brumbies take on the Sunwolves in Tokyo on Saturday February 24, kicking off at 1:15pm local, 3:15pm AEDT.

TEAM

Brumbies to face Sunwolves

1. Ben Alexander

2. Josh Mann-Rea

3. Allan Alaalatoa

4. Richie Arnold

5. Sam Carter

6. Rob Valetini

7. Tom Cusack

8. Isi Naisarani

9. Joe Powell

10. Christian Lealiifano

11. Chance Peni

12. Kyle Godwin

13. Tevita Kuridrani

14. Henry Speight

15. Tom Banks

Reserves

16. Robbie Abel

17. Faalelei Sione

18. Leslie Leuluaialii-Makin

19. Rory Arnold

20. Lachlan Mccaffrey

21. Matt Lucas

22. Wharenui Hawera

23. Lausii Taliauli

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