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'Special human' Slipper to break Super Rugby appearance record / Photo: © AFP
'Special human' Slipper to break Super Rugby appearance record
James Slipper was hailed as "a special human" Wednesday after being named in the ACT Brumbies side to face the Waikato Chiefs for what will be a record-setting 203rd Super Rugby appearance.
The veteran prop, 36, will Friday surpass the all-time mark of 202 held by retired All Blacks and Canterbury Crusaders great Wyatt Crockett since 2017.
Crockett is making the trip from New Zealand to Canberra to witness the feat.
"He just keeps going," Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham said of Slipper.
"It's a special achievement for anyone to get to 100, to get 150, to get to 200, and now to have the record in Super Rugby.
"He is a pretty special human and offers a lot to the Brumbies both on the field and off the field. One of the best leaders that you will find in the game and we're lucky to have him."
Slipper made his Super Rugby debut for the Queensland Reds in 2010, before moving to the Brumbies nine years later.
He played his 151st and final Wallabies Test last year after announcing his retirement from the international game.
"It feels like it's been brewing for a while," Slipper said of the latest landmark. "I'm just excited to get out there and get the game under way."
He suggested he could play on in 2027 if his body holds up.
"In the background I've thought about it. I think physically I can keep going," he said.
The Chiefs, who have won three games from four this season, are coming off a bye.
After winning their opening three games, the Brumbies have lost the last two.
T.Rivera--SFF
