Will Miller trades farm for football to answer ACT Brumbies' Super Rugby SOS

The Canberra Times can reveal Miller has returned to the Brumbies on a short-term contract to bolster their depth on the road to the Super Rugby AU finals.

The 28-year-old retired from professional rugby union last year to pursue a career on the family farm in Berry, when the unassuming flanker was happy to make a lowkey exit from the game.

So it came as something of a shock when he walked in on a Brumbies team meeting at club headquarters on Monday to surprise his teammates, who had no idea he would return.

Brumbies coach Dan McKellar was forced to look for injury cover given Jahrome Brown will miss the remainder of the domestic season with a shoulder injury.

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It is a huge boost for the Brumbies as they set their sights on a showdown with the ladder leading Queensland Reds at Lang Park in Brisbane on Saturday night.

"I'm really excited to be back in Canberra and back at the Brumbies," Miller said.

"I certainly wasn't expecting an opportunity like this when I retired last year and I'll be doing everything I can to make the most of it and contribute where I can."

Miller is the second late addition to the Brumbies squad to cover injuries in the squad, with prop Sefo Kautai called in from Waikato last month to strengthen depth in the front-row.

Miller is one of the most well-liked players among the Brumbies group. There was once a time he would milk cows in the morning before making a two-hour trek to training and games, return home before the early wake-up to do it all again.

Now a man who fits the bill as another classic Brumbies success story returns to the club, having initially made his way to the capital after being stuck behind Wallabies captain Michael Hooper in the pecking order for the NSW Waratahs' No. 7 jersey.

He quickly emerged as a key player in the club's charge to the Super Rugby AU crown and hopes to go back to back.

"We couldn't be happier to have Will back at the Brumbies, he's a really well liked member of the group and a solid footballer with great skills," McKellar said.

"At the same time, we're really disappointed for Jahrome, he had a great pre-season and start to the year and was in really good shape after working hard in the off season."

SUPER RUGBY AU ROUND EIGHT

Saturday: Queensland Reds v ACT Brumbies at Lang Park, 7.45pm. Broadcast: Live on Stan Sport and Gem.

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