Brumbies vs Waratahs: Next Gen Players to Watch
The ACT Brumbies Next Gen team prepares for a final showdown against the NSW Waratahs this Sunday at Eric Tweedale Stadium, with kickoff set for 2:05 PM AEDT. This match concludes the Super Rugby Next Gen season for both teams, following a recent 32-19 defeat for the Brumbies against the Western Force at HBF Park.
Seeking a Strong Finish
Head Coach Robbie Abel acknowledged the Perth result wasn’t ideal, stating, “It wasn’t the result we were after in Perth.” However, he emphasized the team’s determination to end the campaign positively, adding, “We let the game get away from us, but the boys are keen to flip the script. We want to finish the campaign with a performance You can be proud of in this final hit-out.”
New Faces in the Lineup
The Brumbies will field a revised roster for this final encounter, incorporating players from the wider squad. Abel explained, “With the Runners also lacing up this weekend, we’ve had to dip into the wider squad to fill the gaps.” He views this as a valuable opportunity for emerging talent, stating, “It changes the dynamic slightly, but the skeleton of the team is largely the same. It’s a cracker of an opportunity for the fresh faces to front up and show us what they’re made of.”
Key Player Changes and Recognition
Oscar Cleary’s inclusion is particularly meaningful to Abel, who noted, “It hits close to home seeing a young fella from Orange get his crack.” Abel shared a personal connection, adding, “I know the road he’s travelled to get here. I see a bit of my own journey in him, and I’m backing him to go out there and have a blinder.”
In the backline, Riley Whitfeld of the Warringah Rats will start at inside center, while Ed Lyons will feature on the right wing and Angus Tagicakibau at fullback. Abel highlighted Tagicakibau’s recent performance, saying, “Gus put his case forward with his cameo last week. You can’t ignore a bloke who comes off the bench and bags a double like that. He was asking serious questions of their defence every time he touched the pill, so he’s earned the right to run on first.”
Established Core Remains
The Brumbies’ forward pack will retain its core strength, with Nate Hepi, Ewald Kruger, Lochlan Smith, Billy Hansen, and Jack Gordon all retaining their starting positions. Cooper Eagle will captain the side from number 8, alongside flankers Oscar Cleary and Jarvis Orr.
Full Squad Listing
The starting lineup includes: Nate Hepi, Ewald Kruger, Lochlan Smith, Billy Hansen, Jack Gordon, Oscar Cleary, Jarvis Orr, Cooper Eagle (c), Sam Watson, Chace Oates, Jacob Johnson, Dylan Bretton, Riley Whitfeld, Ed Lyons, and Angus Tagicakibau. The finishers are: Fletcher Burrows, Cajun Arnfield, Keegan Daly, Tavita Loughland, Bailey Bouquiaux, Chayse Geros, Will Trostel, and Paddy McInally.
Match Details
ACT Brumbies v NSW Waratahs
Round 3 – Super Rugby Next Gen
Date: Sunday 22 February | Time: 2:05 PM AEDT kick-off
Venue: Eric Tweedale Stadium | Broadcast: Live on Stan Sport and rugby.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the match begin?
The match between the ACT Brumbies and NSW Waratahs will begin at 2:05 PM AEDT on Sunday, February 22nd.
Where will the match be played?
The match will be played at Eric Tweedale Stadium.
How can I watch the game?
The game will be broadcast live on Stan Sport and available on rugby.com.au.
With a revised lineup and a desire to finish the season strong, what kind of performance are you expecting from the ACT Brumbies Next Gen team this Sunday?