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'That would be massive': Slipper sets sights on fourth World Cup, and Wallabies caps record, after new deal

8th February, 2022
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8th February, 2022
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Wallabies prop James Slipper has his sights on a fourth World Cup after signing with the Brumbies and Rugby Australia until the end of 2023.

Australia’s most capped prop – with 114 appearances – was captain in the final Test of 2021 against Wales when Michael Hooper was sidelined with injury.

Slipper’s durability and versatility has been prized by his Wallabies coaches.

He joined the Brumbies at the end of 2018 after nine seasons at the Queensland Reds, where he won a Super Rugby title in 2011.

“I’m really happy to have re-signed with Rugby Australia and the Brumbies until the end of next year,” Slipper said in a statement.

“I have a strong desire to be part of a successful 2023 World Cup campaign with the Wallabies and I believe playing my Rugby here in Australia will give me the best chance to do that.

“I’d like to thank the Brumbies for giving me that opportunity and I’m excited to pull on the jersey again in the new Super Rugby Pacific competition.”

Wallabies coach, Dave Rennie said: “James is a top man and massively respected member of our mob and we’re thrilled he’s re-committed to Australian Rugby.”

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James Slipper against France

James Slipper in action against France. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

“There’s no doubt he’s one of the leading props in World Rugby with his rare ability to start a Test match on both sides of the scrum.

“Despite playing more than 100 Tests and nearly 150 Super Rugby games, he’s constantly looking to improve and he’s a got a real hunger to be successful and create a path for others to follow.”

Brumbies coach Dan McKellar added: “We’re pleased to have Slips stay on with us for another year.”

“His leadership and presence in the group has been evident since his first day at HQ.

“Slips is an incredibly tough and resilient player and person, and he’ll continue to play a big role for the Brumbies in the next couple of seasons.”

Slipper is suddenly in a race with Wallabies captain Michael Hooper to become Australia’s most-capped player after his selfless call to remain with the Brumbies rather than chase a lucrative overseas deal.

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“That’s the great thing about Slips. There’s a lot of men who want to ply their trade overseas but he loves it at the Brumbies, loves it with the Wallabies and the chance to stay on Australian soil,” said Rennie.

“So it was a pretty easy conversation and we were pretty quick to commit to it as well.”

Still only 32 and already with 114 Tests under his belt, Slipper is within sight of George Gregan’s record 139 caps.

Playing tighthead and loosehead, Slipper made 14 appearances for Australia in 2021 and could conceivably add another 15 caps this year if the Wallabies’ spring tour features five matches.

And should he retain his form and remain injury-free, there’s nothing stopping Slipper from catching Gregan at the 2023 World Cup in France.

“Certainly with his versatility, his potential of going to (a fourth) World Cup would be massive,” Rennie said.

“Then his work ethic: he’s big defensively, he’s got a bit of a mean streak in him around cleanout, so he’s been huge.”

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He trails Hooper by four Test caps but doesn’t sit too far behind the champion flanker in the leadership stakes.

“He’s had a big leadership role with our guys. He’s a real doer but he speaks well (too). When he speaks, it’s really succinct. He nails it,” Rennie said.

“He’s respected, the guys listen and he’s been a massive contributor the last couple of years.”

Slipper has been part of three Wallabies Rugby World Cup squads (2011, 2015 and 2019) and has the unique ability to play on both sides of the scrum, making him a highly valued member of any team he plays in.

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