Brumbies salute 'wonderful man' Alexander
Brumbies great Ben Alexander has announced his retirement from rugby union, prompting tributes from chief executive Michael Thomson and head coach Dan McKellar.
The 33-year-old prop called time on a record-breaking career on Monday after making 154 Super Rugby appearances for the Brumbies - more than any other player - and collecting 72 Test caps for Australia.
Alexander's final appearance for the Australian Conference franchise came in a 40-31 defeat of the Waratahs in July, described by the Brumbies as "a fitting end to a glorious career".
Thomson added: "Ben has been a loyal club man and incredible talent. Not only is he a tremendous rugby player, Ben is also a wonderful man and is a very popular person amongst the players, staff and supporters.
"His commitment to the club is second-to-none and is exemplified by his retirement as our record cap holder."
McKellar said: "Ben has been at the club for a long period of time and is a guy who is very popular amongst the playing group, is highly respected and has had a tremendous career having made a significant contribution to the Brumbies."
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Go to commentsFrom a kiwi point of view it would be great if a fleet of 7s could consistently give a big 7/1 bomb squad the run around. That will be helped if World Rugby continue to learn from Super Rugby and the Premiership.
Although I wouldn't take too much from a win over anyone not employing a seven forward bench, especially Wales. SA and France are winning the big trophies for a reason.
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