Two long-retired Wallabies will run out for the ACT Brumbies as wildcard players at the upcoming Brisbane Tens.
Current Brumbies coach and former Wallabies fly-half Stephen Larkham will appear alongside fellow former teammate Andrew Walker at the pre-season tournament which begins in early February.
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“I am looking forward to putting the boots back on in a competitive match environment and playing alongside Andrew at the Global Rugby Tens,” Larkham said.
“It’s great that Andrew is able to commit to represent the Brumbies in the tournament as he was a firm fan favourite during an incredible career at the club.”
Prior to becoming the club’s coach, Larkham played 116 games for the Brumbies, while Walker scored 246 points for the ACT-based franchise in 47 appearances.
The pair aren’t the first retired Wallabies to announce their involvement in the tournament, with former Australian fullback Chris Latham announcing he will be playing for the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium.
Larkham, who in addition to his playing role will continue to coach the side, and Walker are both set to appear for the Brumbies during their three matches against the Highlanders, Toulon and the Bulls on February 11.
The Brumbies are yet to announce their full team for the tournament, however Larkham said the squad will be picked with an eye to preparing for the 2017 Super Rugby season.
“We will be selecting a strong squad to travel to Brisbane to compete in the tournament and the inclusion of Andrew will augment what we are sure will be a competitive team as we prepare for the first round of Super Rugby,” Larkham said.
The Brisbane Tens will be held on February 11 and 12 at Suncorp Stadium, featuring teams from both Super Rugby and European competitions. The complete squads for all the competing teams are set to be announced in the coming weeks.
JB
Guest
you can either watch replays on your computer screen, or the real thing out on the pitch. For me the choice is easy
Jacko
Guest
I can see Larkham in the coaching box if Im that keen to see him otherwise I will watch replays if I want to see him when he was good
Jacko
Guest
Surely the squad size is limited tho??? So they are taking a younger players place
Boz the Younger
Guest
Whatever Mate, I guarantee that for every whinger like you there will be two who are thrilled to see Larkham play again.
Boz the Younger
Guest
It isn't harsh at all, it is the truth.
JB
Guest
OK that was a bit harsh, but I can't find the edit button, did they remove it ?
JB
Guest
How are you gonna tune in ? I get SA Supersports channel but doubt they'll cover it.
JB
Guest
Good to see some real wet blanket supports still exist out there. If I was back in OZ I'd go and buy tickets tomorrow for a chance to see one of the best No 10's to ever put on a rugby jersey. You don't know how lucky you've got it, but instead you gripe and complain. No wonder the Wallabies struggle with this kind of support.
Jacko
Guest
Boz they want me to pay a lot of money and they are promoting the tournament as having all the super rugby stars from Aus and NZ plus some OS stars as well. I have not seen 1 add which promotes it as a golden oldies tournament so do not expect it to be that. I love the old stars, and am happy to go and enjoy that, but thats not what this is. Do Brumbies supporters believe they can win with these guys in their team?
Stephen C
Guest
I don't think Larkham, Walker or the inimitable Latham will be playing full games and blocking the young guys coming through. These guys are strapping on the boots as a fun aside to the real tournament, and to sell tickets. To create a bit of interest in a tournament that was tried as the 'Ballymore Tens' in the nineties (from memory), but failed, probably due to lack of big name players. If these golden oldies' participation puts a few more bums on seats, then it is a positive exercise. I live in Dubai, but I'll be tuning in, for sure.
Boz the Younger
Guest
"If its a serious tournament thats fine but if its going to be treated as a bit of kick and giggle then I wont bother and will spend my money wiser." Taking ourselves a bit seriously aren't we? Rugby is only entertainment after all, the only "wise" way to spend your money is if you enjoy it.
Jacko
Guest
Larkham cant coach so wants to play where he was good.....to late Larkham..you are tooooooooooooooo old
Jacko
Guest
Well based on this decision it has made Me amd my mates re-think our attendance. If its a serious tournament thats fine but if its going to be treated as a bit of kick and giggle then I wont bother and will spend my money wiser. I hope Richard Loe is fit so he too can take up his place in the Cheifs team and Fitzy should be putting the effort in to make the Blues team. If it becomes a golden oldies tournament then its a joke and not the funny kind
Boz the Younger
Guest
Stoked, I have my tickets and can't wait to attend!
Boz the Younger
Guest
It isn't just about "some young guy", it is about paying fans like me who are chuffed to see this guy strapping on the boots again. And I don't see why older players shouldn't enjoy a game if they still can. The young guys have plenty of other opportunities, if one has to sit this one out then so be it.
Machooka
Roar Guru
You see Dave there's the real issue... it's the tackle bit that has necessary concern for me. Tackle wrapped-up in sweaty lycra should be a punishable crime methinks :)
Dave_S
Roar Rookie
It's not easy to tackle someone who's using a walking frame, Chook :)
Machooka
Roar Guru
Yeah Cynical... it's really time for the old MAMIL eh? Looks very professional... well sometimes :)
Dave_S
Roar Rookie
Seriously? There are no young guys in the Brums setup who would benefit from it instead?
Cynical Play
Roar Rookie
Lets bring them ALL back. Then stretcher them off. The heart overrules the head and I am as guilty as any of continuing to play footy when I should be...I don't know.."cycling"... but at least I play touch.