Scrum.com : Mortlock set to make comeback for Brumbies

Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock is expected to return for the Brumbies against the Chiefs next Friday.

Mortlock set to make comeback for Brumbies

24 March 2008, 4:09 pm

By Scrum.com

Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock will return in his 100th Super game for the Brumbies against the Chiefs in his familiar No13 jersey.

Mortlock and Wallabies team-mate Adam Ashley-Cooper will make their first appearances of the season against the Chiefs in Canberra on Friday week.

Mortlock will also relieve George Smith of the captaincy and take over the goal-kicking duties from the injured Mark Gerrard.

There has been speculation about Mortlock playing inside centre. While that may be a long-term option, he will play outside centre against the Chiefs.

"I suspect Stirling will slot into 13," Brumbies coach Laurie Fisher said.

"I'm not sure about playing him in an unfamiliar position with no training. We want to get the most out of him."

Mortlock's long-awaited comeback will be a huge boost to the sixth-placed Brumbies, who are in the race for a top-four finish after their victory over the Cheetahs on Friday.

Gerrard is expected to be sidelined for a couple of weeks with a hamstring injury, which means Ashley-Cooper will make his comeback in the No15 jersey.

"Gerrard is unlikely to play," Fisher said. "I can't see him playing. It's not a major injury, but it could be. It will be a couple of weeks."

Wallabies forwards Guy Shepherdson and Al Campbell, who returned from injury on the bench against the Cheetahs, are likely to start against the Chiefs.

"Shepherdson and Campbell will be better for having a run under their belt," Fisher said.

The Brumbies needed to beat the winless Cheetahs at home to keep their finals hopes alive.