‘Brilliant’ Tom Wright’s stunning try propels Brumbies into Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals against the Chiefs

The ACT Brumbies will once again represent Australia in the Super Rugby Pacific semi-finals, having triumphed over the Hurricanes with a nail-biting 35-28 victory in Canberra on Saturday evening.

The Brumbies’ front-row members shone brightly, with Billy Pollard (x2), Allan Alaalatoa, and James Slipper all crossing the try line, earning the team a spot in the final four against the Chiefs in Hamilton next weekend.

Yet, while the big boys had their moments, it’s Tom Wright’s stunning try that will be etched in memory.

The Wallabies fullback netted a fantastic try in the second half, initiated by Rob Valetini’s brilliant inside pass that Stan Sport’s Morgan Turinui labelled a “stroke of genius.”

A touch of Stephen Larkham flair?

“Not quite, the lads were just playing off the cuff there,” Brumbies coach Larkham responded dryly.

“We’ve still got more games to come.”

This marks the third time in four seasons that the Hurricanes have seen their campaign cut short in Australia’s capital.

Concerns that the qualifying final might turn out to be a mere formality faded when the Blues clinched a narrow 20-19 victory over the Chiefs earlier in Hamilton.

Players gathered around TVs at GIO Stadium, their anticipation palpable as the stakes rose.

Larkham expressed no dissatisfaction with the current finals format, wherein the top-seeded Chiefs could lose yet still host a semi-final at home.

Stan Sport’s Michael Atkinson remarked on the apparent unfairness of the situation.

“That’s because you’re Australian, that’s why,” Larkham quipped.

“There should be a reward for finishing first, and likewise for second—essentially, you get another chance at it. The Chiefs have been exceptional all season.”

“We’re just focused on the Chiefs in Hamilton next week. And we hope the Blues can take down the Crusaders, so we might be back here in two weeks for the grand final.”

Additionally, Larkham advocated for the inclusion of Brumbies halfback Ryan Lonergan in Wallabies discussions, as he has often been overlooked in favour of Jake Gordon, Tate McDermott, and Nic White.

“I’m hopeful that this will change this year,” he stated.

“He’s had a remarkable season, significantly improving from last year, especially in terms of his game management and kicking.”

“His defensive game is exceptional; he’s putting in more work than most on the field, and his passing is much sharper this year, especially under pressure at breakdowns.

“Moreover, his leadership is a vital aspect that often goes unnoticed. He commands respect in the squad, both during training and team meetings. When he speaks, the entire team listens.”

The Crusaders will host the Blues in the first semi-final on Friday night after their commanding 32-12 win over the Queensland Reds in Christchurch.

No Australian side has claimed the title since the NSW Waratahs in 2014.

However, Hurricanes co-captain Du’Plessis Kirifi had nothing but respect for the Brumbies, stating, “We didn’t manage to get it done tonight. That Brumbies side really raised their game and demonstrated why they’ve been so successful here. We simply fell short this time.”