James Slipper is set to create Super Rugby history if he plays for the ACT Brumbies in tomorrow night’s clash with the Waikato-based Chiefs in Canberra.
With a record-equalling 202 games to his name, the prop will become the most capped player if he plays at GIO Stadium.
Former All Black Wyatt Crockett, who shares the record at the moment, is expected to fly in from New Zealand to attend the game, say the organisers; the former All Black has held the record since 2017.
Slipper, 36, made his Super Rugby debut in 2010 for Queensland and played 104 games for them, including the title-winning team of 2011.
In 2019 he joined the Brumbies and played 98 games for them.
SLIPPER FETED
“To break the Super Rugby appearance record is a remarkable achievement and an undeniable testament to James Slipper’s durability, professionalism and commitment to our game,” Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley says.
“Slips has been a pillar of Australian rugby for more than (15 years) and his contribution to our competition can-not be understated.”
Rugby fans worldwide can help celebrate the milestone by posting photos and videos of their slippers on social media, using #SlippersForSlipper.
The Brumbies will be without Allan Alaalatoa (back), Tom Wright (leg) and Ollie Sapsford (leg), among others, due to injury.
The Chiefs have a smaller injury list with All Black Wallace Sititi still out due to a hamstring injury.
The Canberra game follows the Highlanders-Hurricanes clash in Dunedin.
On Saturday (in chronological order), the Fijian Drua host Queensland, Moana Pasifika host the Christchurch-based Crusaders in Auckland and NSW hosts the Auckland-based Blues. The Western Force have the bye.
OTHER BRUMBIES NEWS: Crusaders hoodoo comes to an end
ARGENTINA BIDS FOR 2035 RWC
Meanwhile, Rugby Australia (rugby.com.au) is reporting that Argentina will bid to stage the 2035 World Cup as part of a South American bid that will include Brazil, Chile and Uruguay.
World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin is reported to be in the country to assess their feasibility as hosts.
“The 2035 bid represents a federal objective and a legacy project that transcends our borders,” the website quotes Gabriel Travaglini, president of Argentina’s rugby union.
“Welcoming Alan to advance this technical analysis is a fundamental step in demonstrating that the region is ready.
“We want a World Cup that reflects the passion and development that rugby has achieved in every corner of our territory.”
Formal applications for hosting rights have to be submitted this autumn with a preferred host identified in May 2027 and final approval that November.
Argentina have reached the semi-finals three times and are currently fifth in the global rankings, one place above England.
Japan, Spain, Italy and a combined Middle East bid are also reported to be preparing bids.
