Brumbies Unveil Fresh Faces in First Trial Team of 2026
The ACT Brumbies have revealed their initial trial squad for the 2026 season, showcasing a blend of emerging talent and returning stars as they prepare for their opening pre-season clash against the Western Force.
New Faces and Key Returns
Head coach Stephen Larkham has selected a new-look lineup that includes several players making their mark at the Super Rugby level. The team is headlined by the return of Test star Charlie Cale, who is set to play his first game in almost eleven months after recovering from stress fractures that derailed his 2025 campaign.
Cale will wear the No.8 jersey in what promises to be a highly anticipated comeback. Larkham emphasised the careful management of Cale's return, noting the player's excitement to get back on the field while ensuring he is not overloaded in his first match back.
Emerging Talent Steps Up
The Brumbies' trial team features a number of promising newcomers. Chris Mickelson, who claimed the Macdougall Medal as the John I Dent Cup's player of the year, starts at hooker. In the forwards, Harvey Cordukes earns a start at lock after returning from France to help Uni-Norths secure a premiership last season.
In the backs, Declan Meredith gets the first opportunity to fill the void left by injured star Tom Wright at fullback. The wing positions will be occupied by Kye Oates and Shane Wilcox, while Hudson Creighton starts at outside centre in the jersey vacated by Len Ikitau.
Jarrah McLeod, who burst onto the scene against the British and Irish Lions last year, will start at inside centre, adding to the youthful energy in the backline.
Strategic Selections and Competition
With the bulk of the club's Wallaby contingent being rested for this trial, the match presents a crucial opportunity for younger players to stake their claim. Tane Edmed has been named to start at flyhalf, with Larkham stating the need to see him in action as soon as possible.
Larkham highlighted the intense competition for spots within the squad, particularly in positions where established players have departed. He mentioned several players including Toby Macpherson and Eli Langi as prospects pushing for selection, though he noted the competition has remained healthy without any training ground altercations.
The coach will take a 28-man squad to Perth for Friday night's trial at Scotch College, where the Brumbies will face a Western Force team also looking to build momentum ahead of the new season.
Building Towards the Season
This opening trial represents the first step in the Brumbies' preparations for the 2026 Super Rugby campaign. With several key positions up for grabs and new combinations being tested, Larkham and his coaching staff will be closely monitoring performances as they shape their squad for the challenges ahead.
The match against the Western Force provides valuable game time for both established players making their return and newcomers looking to make an impression at the professional level.
