Alcock, Cubelli leaving Canberra

Tue, Aug 1, 2017, 12:56 AM
Sam Phillips
by Sam Phillips
Tomas Cubelli will leave the Brumbies. Photo: Getty Images
Tomas Cubelli will leave the Brumbies. Photo: Getty Images

The Brumbies have lost two seasoned campaigners, with Tomas Cubelli and Chris Alcock confirming they won't return to Canberra in 2018.

Official word of Cubelli's departure comes as little surprise, as it has long been rumoured that he was eager to return to Argentina to join the Jaguares next season.

The scrumhalf joined the club at the start of 2016 and delivered on his marquee tag with a stellar year but his 2017 has been marred by a serious knee injury suffered in a preseason trial.

He made a successful return in the final weeks of the Brumbies' season and will leave the club in good hands, with Joe Powell now a regular fixture in the Wallabies fold.

“I had a very enjoyable two seasons at the Brumbies and thank everyone connected with the club for their support during my time here,” Cubelli said.Tomas Cubelli will join the Jaguares in 2018. Photo: Getty Images“The Brumbies are a very special organisation and I feel privileged to have been able to play for such a great team.

“I have made many friends in Canberra and Australia and am looking forward to hopefully playing in front of many of them in the Rugby Championship match in September.”

Alcock's departure is a big blow for the Brumbies, as he has had a dominant year as the team's openside flanker.

His talent was always evident during his time with the Waratahs and later, the Force, but 2017 was arguably his best season yet.

The 29-year-old will join Japanese club Kamaishi Seawaves.Alcock is heading to Japan. Photo: Getty Images“I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Brumbies and have nothing but good things to say about my time in Canberra,” Alcock said.

“Playing at GIO Stadium in front of our loyal supporters was great fun and I believe that the Brumbies have a great young group that can achieve huge things in the future.

"I head to Japan for a new adventure in my life and am looking forward to the challenge ahead.

"Thank you all for your support during my time at the club.”

The pain of Alcock's departure will of course be eased by the return of David Pocock, who has been on sabbatical this year.

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