Brumbies Captain Lealiifano diagnosed with Leukaemia

Sat, Aug 6, 2016, 12:49 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
Lealiifano has been diagnosed with Leaukaemia. Photo: ARU Media Stuart Walmsley
Lealiifano has been diagnosed with Leaukaemia. Photo: ARU Media Stuart Walmsley

The Brumbies have been rocked by news that co-captain Christian Lealiifano has been diagnosed with Leukaemia

Lealiifano, who was not named in Friday's Wallabies squad, is currently in hospital after his diagnosis.

The Brumbies said, in a statement, that after a brief illness, investigations revealed the disease.

Brumbies interim Chief Executive, Phil Thomson, said the club was still processing the news.

"At the moment it's just a matter of ensuring Christian receives the best care and support he can at this time,” Thomson said in a statement.

"He is one of the most respected players within this group and this news has come as a huge shock to all of our players, coaches and staff.

"Everyone knows that Christian is an amazing young man, an important member of this team and of the Canberra community.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Christian and his family at this time.”

Lealiifano made his Wallabies return in June after a two-year absence and partner, Luga, gave birth to the couple's first child, Jeremih, in the same week.

The playmaker re-signed with Australian Rugby earlier this year, extending his time in Canberra to more than a decade.

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