The ACT Brumbies are returning closer to full strength after several stars were named to start for Saturday’s clash with the Hurricanes.
Len Ikitau (concussion) and Luke Reimer (rested) will start after missing last week’s whitewash win over Moana Pasifika.
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James Slipper and Billy Pollard also return to the starting side after impressive performances off the bench in Pukekohe.
“Those two are boys in Len (Ikitau) and Luke (Reimer) have been in the team for a number of years,” captain Allan Alaalatoa said.
“They don't have a leadership title as such but are considered as leaders in the team through their actions and both have been playing great throughout the year.”
The two sides will play for the inaugural edition of the Captain Shout Cup, named after Captain Alfred Shout VC, MC, the Wellington born, Australian who was awarded the Military Cross (MC) for his actions during the Battle of the Landing in 1915 and the Victoria Cross (VC) for bravery at the Battle of Lone Pine in 1915.
The match also has significant ramifications for the Brumbies' hopes of finishing in the top two, as they sit four points behind the Chiefs and Crusaders.
On top of this, the Hurricanes need to win to keep in touch with the top six after a draw with the Force.
They will be without Asafo Aumua, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Isaia Walker-Leawere and Fatafehi Fineanganofo after they all suffered concussions in the 90-minute bruising effort.
“Last weekend gives us massive confidence, especially in and around the defence part of our game,” Alaalatoa said.
“To keep Moana out, who are a great attacking side, I think that was a massive effort for a lot of our boys. Especially with the discipline that we showed, we had two yellow cards and we still kept them to zero.
“So that was a positive, but we also understand that this weekend poses a lot of different other threats, which we're aware of. We have to make sure we're on top of our game against the Hurricanes.
“It’s going to be a physical game up front. You've got to earn the right against these blokes and I don't think it'll be any different for this weekend. It’s going to be a great game and I think both teams will represent Anzac well.”
BRUMBIES (1-15): James Slipper, Billy Pollard, Allan Alaalatoa (c), Nick Frost, Tom Hooper, Rob Valetini, Luke Reimer, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Ryan Lonergan, Noah Lolesio, Corey Toole, David Feliuai, Len Ikitau, Andy Muirhead, Tom Wright
Replacements: Lachlan Lonergan, Rhys van Nek, Feao Fotuaika, Lachlan Shaw, Rory Scott, Harrison Goddard, Declan Meredith, Ollie Sapsford
HURRICANES (1-15): Tevita Mafileo, Raymond Tuputupu, Pasilio Tosi, Caleb Delany, Zach Gallagher, Brad Shields (co-c), Du'Plessis Kirifi (co-c), Peter Lakai, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Kini Nanolo, Riley Higgins, Billy Proctor (co-c), Ngatungane Punivai, Callum Harkin
Replacements: Jacob Devery, Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, Will Tucker, Brayden Iose, Ereatara Enari, Riley Hohepa, Bailyn Sullivan
