James Slipper, Australia’s most-capped rugby player, will end his international rugby career following the final Rugby Championship match against New Zealand this Saturday. The 36-year-old, who recently celebrated his 150th cap against the All Blacks in Auckland, will retire after a distinguished 16-year run. Joining legends like Wales’ Alun Wyn Jones and New Zealand’s Sam Whitelock, Slipper’s name will remain etched in the annals of rugby history.
Slipper’s journey with the Wallabies comes full circle as he prepares to finish his international career in Perth, where he first represented Australia at just 21 in 2010. Looking back, Slipper expressed tremendous pride in fulfilling his childhood dream of playing for the Wallabies, a privilege he never took for granted.
With a new generation of talent emerging in Australian rugby and the 2027 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, Slipper sees this as the right time to step aside. He hopes that the upcoming stars will seize the opportunity to gain valuable experience.
Throughout his career, Slipper has been notable for his resilience and leadership. As the most-capped test prop ever, he has played in two British & Irish Lions series and is one of only three Australians to participate in four World Cups. Since he began captaining the Wallabies in 2015, he has led the team in 15 matches.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt praised Slipper as a “great person” and “the ultimate team man,” acknowledging his great impact on the team. Despite a two-month suspension in 2018, Slipper came back strong, revitalizing his career with the ACT Brumbies and reclaiming a spot in the national team.
As the Wallabies gear up for their last test against New Zealand, the match still holds significance in the Rugby Championship, despite being a dead rubber for the Bledisloe Cup. A victory over the All Blacks could potentially secure the Championship title for Australia if Argentina defeats South Africa at Twickenham.
Slipper’s retirement marks another pivotal exit in Australian rugby, following Michael Hooper, indicating a transition for the Wallabies as they prepare the next generation. Slipper’s career exemplifies dedication and resilience, and although his international presence is concluding, his significant contributions will leave a lasting legacy while paving the way for future Australian rugby heroes.