Brumbies re-sign Joe Powell but Christian Lealiifano’s future unclear

THE Brumbies have received a boost going into their vital Super Rugby match against the Hurricanes by securing the signature of scrumhalf Joe Powell for the next two years. But Brumbies co-captain Christian Lealiifano’s future is still up in the air.

Wallabies halfback Joe Powell has re-signed with the Brumbies.

THE Brumbies have received a boost going into their vital Super Rugby match against the Hurricanes by securing the signature of scrumhalf Joe Powell for the next two years.

Powell is coming off playing his fourth Test for the Wallabies and had no hesitation in extending his stay in Canberra until the end of the 2020 season.

“I’m happy to be staying in Canberra, I don’t think there was any way I was going anywhere else so it’s definitely nice,” Powell told reporters on Friday.

However, Brumbies co-captain Christian Lealiifano’s future in Australian rugby is still up in the air after he signed a contract in Japan.

The playmaker will join Toyota Jido Shokki when the Super Rugby season finishes, but returning to Canberra next year is a possibility.

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Brumbies co-captain Christian Lealiifano is coming off contract.

Lealiifano says next year’s World Cup will play a part in his decision as he still has a desire to turn out for the Wallabies again.

“It’s been a bit of a tough one, trying to decide. I’m getting on a bit now and turning 32 next year,” Lealiifano said.

“A World Cup year has probably been the biggest drawcard and to see if I can sign back in Australia and have a crack at that.

“It’s definitely something I’ve been having a chat to my family about.”

Lealiifano intended to play in Japan two years ago before being diagnosed with cancer.

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He returned to the Brumbies team in last year’s quarterfinal loss after missing the whole regular season recovering from illness.

Lealiifano then immediately headed to Ireland to play for Ulster in the Pro 14 competition, meaning he will play his third back to back season in Japan.

The 19 Test Wallaby says he will take his time with a decision and isn’t worrying about a potential home farewell game at GIO Stadium on Saturday night against the Hurricanes.

“It’s not about rushing or pressuring myself to make a decision,” Lealiifano said.

“I’ve been at this club long enough to not worry about having farewell things or whatever.”

Originally published as Brumbies re-sign Joe Powell but Christian Lealiifano’s future unclear