Brumbies fullback Tom Banks believes the rise in viewership and attendance has created a fresh buzz around the team and competition ahead of the Super Rugby AU Finals.
Rugby Australia confirmed on Monday the competition's ratings were up an average of 144% year-on-year (not including Stan Sport figures) since moving to free-to-air television.
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This has extended off the field, with a 16.4% increase in player registrations from the same time in 2019.
The subsequent rise has led to unprecedented levels of support around Canberra ahead of Saturday's final against the Force according to Banks.
“Speaking with people around Canberra and Australia, there’s definitely a buzz around Rugby which I haven’t seen since I’ve been here,” he told reporters on Tuesday.
“It’s only positive from here. With this finals series and moving into Super Rugby Trans-Tasman, it’s only going to benefit that.”
Banks is well aware of the challenge that awaits them, suggesting that they need to lift their intensity if they wish to return to the Final against the Reds.
“There’s always a buzz around finals, the intensity ramps up” he believes.
“Obviously having the week off, it renews that energy and it’s about building forward for us because it will be a tough few weeks.
“We know that the Force will bring a real physicality so we need to match that up front and play our own game.”
Banks and the Brumbies have been denied another re-match with former team-mate Tevita Kuridrani, who was suspended for three matches after his lifting tackle on Hunter Paisami.
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As discussion continues to rage over the suspension, Banks and the Brumbies are maintaining their focus on their own performance.
“It’ll be really disappointing for them, he’s a world class player who brings a lot in attack and defence,” Banks said on Kuridrani.
“They’ve got players that can step up in that position so we’re expecting nothing different…they pose the same threat.
“For us, it’s about focusing on our game and what we can bring to the table rather than focusing on him."
It’s do or die for both the Brumbies and Western Force this Saturday night in Canberra. Catch all the finals action ad-free, live and on demand on Stan Sport as well as simulcast live on 9Gem, click here to purchase tickets.
