Sibling rivalry to turn Super in Canberra

Wed, Apr 20, 2016, 5:41 AM
Matt Lewis
by Matt Lewis
It's been a busy week for Rebels back Tamati Ellison with the centre and his wife expecting their fourth child while Brumbies prop Allan Alaalatoa will line-up against his brother Mike on Sunday when they face the Crusaders.

There’ll be more than just Super Rugby points on offer when the Brumbies take on the Crusaders this weekend, with family bragging rights up for grabs.

Brumbies prop Allan Alaalatoa will play against older brother, Michael, when the Brumbies host the Kiwi side – the first time siblings have faced off in Super Rugby.

It’s not the first time the Alaalatoa brothers have faced off against each other, having played for opposing Academy sides but Allan said this would be entirely different.

“I was with the Brumbies Runners and he was with the Waratahs A, obviously at a Super Rugby level it’s a different story,” he said.

Being opponents on the field it won’t affect their strong relationship, with a huge family contingent expected for the clash in Canberra.

Allan expects the pair’s mother to be the ultimate fence sitter when she comes down to GIO Stadium this weekend.

“Mum’s gone around and made t-shirts with a little badge, half Brumbies, half Crusaders and “team Allalatoa” on the back,” he said.

“I have to get about 30 tickets, Mick’s also trying to get some too but that isn’t even going be enough to provide for the family”

Michael, a former Waratahs product was lost to Australian Rugby last year when the Crusaders offered him a one-year contract.

Michael Alaalatoa makes a tackle against the Kings earlier this year. Photo: Getty Images

Despite being on the other side of the Tasman, the siblings often speak in the lead up to matches, but there’s sure to be a bit more banter than usual ahead of this weekend’s clash.

“I sent him a message last night, trying to get in his grill a bit. Normally during the week I wish him well with his preparation,” Allan said.

“My family have an apartment so Mum has organised a family feed the night before the game and the night of the game.

“Mum asked what we want for dinner and I know he prefers pasta so I told Mum to cook some steak, just to put him off a bit.

“I’ll probably pick him up and drop him back off but hopefully he doesn’t get any food poisoning.” Allan joked.

Outside centre Tevita Kuridrani is an old hat at familial opponents, having faced cousin Nemani Nadolo, a star winger for the Crusaders and Fiji, at both Super Rugby and Test level.

The Brumbies will host the Crusaders at GIO Stadium on Sunday at 4:05pm AEST, LIVE on FOX SPORTS.

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