Australia’s most capped prop James Slipper is looking at another two seasons of Test rugby.
He has extended his contract with Rugby Australia and the Brumbies until the end of next year’s Rugby World Cup.
Slipper, 32, has played 114 Tests. He has shared a Super Rugby title when the Reds beat the Crusaders in 2011’s final. And after transferring to the Brumbies in 2019, he also shared their success in Super Rugby Australia in 2020.
Slipper played 105 games for the Reds between 2010-18 and has played 39 times for the Brumbies.
Slipper said he wanted to be part of a successful Australian World Cup campaign in France.
“I believe playing my rugby here in Australia will give me the best chance to do that,” he said.
Australia coach Dave Rennie recognised Slipper’s leadership skills when making him captain for November’s Test against Wales.
“James is a top man and massively respected member of our mob, and we’re thrilled he’s recommitted to Australian rugby,” Rennie said.
“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.”
Departing Brumbies coach Dan McKellar said they were pleased to secure Slipper through next year.
“His leadership and presence in the group have 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,” he said.
Meanwhile, Wallabies captain Michael Hooper, who was awarded the John Eales Medal for the fourth time at the weekend, will miss the opening rounds of Super Rugby Pacific while completing a contracted break from the Waratahs.
Hooper sought the break when signing his contract in 2018 to have time away from rugby to prepare him for the build-up to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
