Super W revamped as ACT Brumbies eye Wallaroos spots

The Brumbies were initially slated to face the President's XV in a third-place playoff before NSW battled Queensland in the final.

But now the Brumbies will play the Melbourne Rebels to open proceedings at Coffs Harbour International Stadium on Saturday morning.

The Rebels were initially not scheduled to play on Saturday after the Western Force withdrew from the competition due to growing coronavirus concerns.

The President's XV will face a Super W invitational team made up of non-playing squad members from other teams, as well as a sprinkling of regional NSW talent.

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With a shot at third place now effectively out the window for both the Brumbies and President's XV, the emphasis on Saturday's games has shifted.

Players can press their claims for a Wallaroos call-up, with Rugby Australia committed to playing the postponed two-Test series against Samoa later this year.

Brumbies vice-captain Harriet Elleman has backed a raft of her teammates to force their way into contention, with winger Halley Derera and front-rower Iris Verebalavu enjoying breakout campaigns.

"I would absolutely love it. I know this team has the potential to go on and represent Australia, every single one of them," Elleman said.

"My team is incredible, I love them very much and I know their skill is unparalleled.

"They have worked so hard for the past six months to bring it into this week of competition, every single one of them deserves a look in."

The Brumbies are coming off a 24-3 loss to the Waratahs, who have again emerged as the competition favourites as they eye a fourth consecutive unbeaten season.

But the Brumbies will ride a wave of confidence into the clash with the Rebels having trounced their Melbourne rivals to by 25 points in the season opener at Seiffert Oval a fortnight ago.

"We are a force to be reckoned with," Elleman said.

"The squad is actually feeling really good. Morale is high. Look at our set piece, look at what we did to [the Waratahs], we absolutely rattled them.

"We are disappointed we lost and we don't get another chance to play the Waratahs in that grand final this year, but it also shows how far we have come."

SUPER W

Saturday: ACT Brumbies v Melbourne Rebels at Coffs Harbour International Stadium, 9am. Broadcast live on Stan Sport.

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