Huxley Makes Return To Rugby.

CA Brumbies fullback Julian Huxley has made a triumphant return to rugby with a starring role in the Brumby Runners’ 36-16 win over the Junior Waratahs at Sydney ’s Knox Grammar on Sunday afternoon.

Huxley’s rugby career was postponed two years ago after undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumour, however, the nine-Test Wallaby gained clearance to take his place for the Runners against the previously undefeated NSW side.

The 30-year-old, who played 80 minutes in his return match, was outstanding for the visitors, playing a hand in five of his side’s tries and helping guide the Runners back from a four-point half-time deficit to run out eventual six-tries-to-one victors.

It was a Huxley break and later a chip-and-regather that set up the Runners’ first two tries to Andrew Smith in the first half before throwing the final pass to Alfi Mafi on two occasions to allow the winger to cross for his first two of three tries.

Huxley said he was pleased to again be lacing up the boots.

"I've felt good for the last 18 months which is why I've been trying to come back and play," he said. "But nothing's really in the bank until you come back and play.

"I didn't know what to expect, I thought I might have been a bit rusty but fortunately the gods were smiling on me and I had a trouble-free comeback."

Having received the clearance, Huxley is now eligible to return to play Investec Bank Super 14 rugby.

Flanker Michael Hooper was the pick of the Runners’ forwards through his tenacious defence, hard on-the-ball approach and ability to back up across the field.

MATCH DETAILSBrumby Runners 36 (Alfi Mafi 3; Andrew Smith 2; Anthony Hegarty tries; Matt Toomua 3 conversions) defeated Junior Waratahs 16 (Rory Sidey try; Brendan McKibbin conversion, 3 penalty goals) at Knox Grammar, Sydney.
Half time: Junior Waratahs 16-12