Angus Wagner joins Brumbies for semi-final clash against Jaguares

The uncapped prop has been named in Dan McKellar's 27-player touring squad ahead of their semi-final clash against the Argentina Jaguares on Saturday.

The 21-year-old forward caught McKellar's attention after a strong pre-season with the Brumbies and joined the full-time squad as an injury replacement for Vunipola Fifita in May.

Wagner graduated from the Brumbies Academy earlier this year and has been one of the best tightheads in the John I Dent Cup.

Tuggeranong Vikings coach Nick Scrivener said the call-up was a great reward for Wagner, who has been "knocking on the door" for an opportunity.

"He's been on the radar for a while now and the Brumbies have been watching him closely," Scrivener said.

"He was working with them full-time earlier in the year so they're well aware of what he can offer. This is another step for him and it's good to see players from local footy get rewarded.

"For a Viking to play a part in the Brumbies' semi-final is fantastic. We pride ourselves in developing players who are pushing through."

The Brumbies will have to overcome a gruelling travel schedule and a physical battle against the Jaguares to secure their spot in the grand final.

Scrivener believes Wagner will rise up to the occasion should he make his Super Rugby debut on Saturday.

"I've got a lot of confidence in Angus," Scrivener said.

"It's a big task for a young front-rower to be playing the Jaguares in Buenos Aires, they're pretty much a test team.

"It'll certainly be a massive step up for him but he's a good, young player. I'm sure he'll take the opportunity with both hands if it presents itself."

The Brumbies are confident they have the depth to cover star back-rower Pete Samu, who has been ruled out of the semi-final with a hamstring injury.

It's a crucial blow for the tourists, who are already missing David Pocock in the back-row. Samu was one of the stars in the Brumbies' stimulating win against the Durban Sharks on Saturday, scoring his first try after just 56 seconds.

Blake Enever has been added to McKellar's 27-strong squad to help replace Samu, while Andy Muirhead, Mack Hansen and Murray Douglas also received call-ups. Meanwhile departing captain Christian Lealiifano will play his 150th match for the club.

SUPER RUGBY SEMI-FINAL

Saturday: Argentina Jaguares v ACT Brumbies at Jose Amalfitani Stadium, Buenos Aires, 9.05am (AEST).

BRUMBIES TOURING SQUAD

FORWARDS: Scott Sio, Allan Alaalatoa, Leslie Leuluaialii-Makin, James Slipper, Angus Wagner, Folau Fainga'a, Connal McInerney, Rory Arnold, Sam Carter, Darcy Swain, Blake Enever, Murray Douglas, Tom Cusack, Rob Valetini, Jahrome Brown, Lachlan McCaffrey.

BACKS: Joe Powell, Matt Lucas, Christian Lealiifano, Toni Pulu, Tom Wright, Henry Speight, Andy Muirhead, Tevita Kuridrani , Irae Simone, Tom Banks, Mack Hansen.