Brumbies ace Matt Toomua jets to Johannesburg in time for must-win clash against Lions

MATT Toomua has been rushed straight back into the Brumbies’ starting side as the Canberra team attempts to dig itself out of a form slump in Johannesburg.

Brumbies Matt Toomua scores a try during the NSW Waratahs v ACT Brumbies Super Rugby game at Allianz Stadium, Sydney. Pic Brett Costello

MATT Toomua has been rushed straight back into the Brumbies’ starting side as the Canberra team attempts to dig itself out of a form slump in the tough cauldron of Johannesburg.

The Brumbies face the Lions on Sunday (1.05am AEST) and desperately need victory to maintain top spot on the Australian conference, with a bye the following giving rivals NSW and Melbourne the opportunity to overtake them.

Toomua, who has missed the past month of action due to an ankle injury, flew solo to South Africa this week and has jetted straight into the No. 12 jersey he has occupied so well for the Wallabies.

“It was a little bit lonely flying over by myself but I got some sleep and I’m good to go,” Toomua said.

“I needed to be at home just for that extra week to get my ankle right but it’s feeling good and I’ve been given the all clear so I’ll be playing this weekend.

“The Lions are an exciting team to watch. They love playing from their own end, they love quick lineouts and off loads, which is unorthodox for a South African side which would usually be so dominant at set piece and go from there.”

Prop Allan Alaalatoa will make his first career start in the match, replacing JP Smith at loosehead,

Toomua has ousted Robbie Coleman, who has been named on an extended bench.

BRUMBIES: Jesse Mogg, Henry Speight, Tevita Kuridrani, Matt Toomua, Joseph Tomane, Christian Lealiifano, Nic White, Ita Vaea, David Pocock, Scott Fardy, Rory Arnold, Sam Carter, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore (captain), Allan Alaalatoa. Reserves: Josh Mann-Rea, JP Smith, Ruan Smith, Jordan Smiler, Jarrad Butler, Blake Enever, Michael Dowsett, Robbie Coleman, James Dargaville, Nigel Ah Wong (three to be omitted).

Originally published as Brumbies ace Matt Toomua jets to Johannesburg in time for must-win clash against Lions