Brumbies name Wallaby-heavy forward pack for Melbourne visit

The Brumbies begin their 2024 campaign with lofty ambitions after successive semi-final exits against Kiwi opposition.

Round one sees the ACT squad travel to Melbourne to face the Rebels, a side out to prove their place in the competition after entering voluntary administration late last month.

2023 John Eales Medal winner Rob Valetini headlines the team naming, occupying the blindside flanker role while Charlie Cale starts at No. 8. Luke Reimer rounds out the back row.

Ryan Lonergan has been handed the captaincy in the absence of Allan Alaalatoa, starting at halfback following the departure of Nic White and partnering with Noah Lolesio in the halves.

The pair will feed a well-rounded backline that features plenty of pace in Corey Toole on the right wing and Tom Wright at fullback.

Brumbies team to play the Rebels:

1. James Slipper
2. Lachlan Lonergan
3. Rhys Van Nek
4. Nick Frost
5. Tom Hooper
6. Rob Valetini
7. Luke Reimer
8. Charlie Cale
9. Ryan Lonergan (c)
10. Noah Lolesio
11. Andy Muirhead
12. Ollie Sapsford
13. Len Ikitau
14. Corey Toole
15. Tom Wright

Replacements: Billy Pollard, Blake Schoupp, Sefo Kautai, Cadeyrn Neville, Jahrome Brown, Klayton Thorn, Declan Meredith, Tamati Tua