The ACT Brumbies receive a major boost to their forward pack this week, with Wallabies stars Allan Alaalatoa and Lachlan Lonergan returning for their first appearances of the 2026 season.
Alaalatoa slots straight back into the starting side, while Lonergan will make his impact from the bench as the Brumbies take on the Highlanders tonight in Dunedin. Both men have fought through injury battles in 2026 and, after clocking up seemingly endless hours in rehab, are champing at the bit for the round nine fixture.
Watch every second of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season live and on demand via Stan Sport.
Sitting in the Brumbies medical room in January, Alaalatoa feared he would miss the entire season after picking up a back injury on the Wallabies end of season tour. The battle-hardened Brumbies general said it forced him to rethink his leadership role within the group.
“It was pretty hard to face because I always want to lace up the boots and put on the jersey and perform for the team,” Alaalatoa said.
“I had a different approach. If I can't contribute on the field, it's about how I contribute off it. It’s just trying to help others shine in their own way and go out there and perform in the best way they can for the jersey.”
The results have been evident in 2026, with a new crop of tightheads emerging from the capital in Rhys van Nek, Darcy Breen and Tevita Alatini. All three have stepped into valuable minutes and contributed to the Brumbies’ strong start to the season — development shaped in no small part by Allan Alaalatoa’s influence within the squad. Even while sidelined, the Wallabies prop has remained a constant presence around the group, offering experience, guidance and a steady hand behind the scenes.
Now the 147-cap veteran brings invaluable experience, physicality, and calm authority back to the Brumbies pack.
“I wouldn’t be in this position if I wasn’t ready to go out and perform. There is nothing like going out for your first game back. It hits different.”
Lonergan, meanwhile, has been on a longer comeback trail since injuring his ACL against the British & Irish Lions in July last year. The hooker, who’s game relies on dynamic ball running, has carefully rebuilt his knee, preparing himself for the rigours of Super Rugby. The secret to staying engaged in the rehab room – heading out to the farm. For Lachlan, and his brother Ryan, spending time on his family’s farm helps them reset mentally.
“I love being out there. It’s nice and peaceful, and I grew up there,” Lonergan said.
“With my rehab, it was just about getting away from footy as much as I can.”
Lonergan has impressed in his comeback matches for the Brumby Runners and Tuggeranong Vikings in recent weeks. With 61 caps under his belt, Lonergan’s try‑scoring ability and trademark impact will be welcomed by the coaching staff and fans alike. His return is made even more special as he lines up alongside his brother Ryan Lonergan, who celebrates his 100th Brumbies appearance tonight.
“We’ve played together since we were six years old, so it means a lot. It will be nice to be there and share it with him, along with our family," Lonergan said.
The return of the Wallabies duo comes at a crucial time as the Brumbies look to regain momentum. Kick‑off is at 5:05 pm AEST, and this will be one Brumbies fans do not want to miss!
