Super Rugby
Matt Toomua commits to Brumbies
May 8, 2014
Matt Toomua talks to ESPNscrum about his relationship with Steve Larkham
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Matt Toomua has re-signed with the Brumbies for another three Super Rugby seasons and hopes fellow Wallabies playmaker Christian Leali'ifano will follow suit.

Matt Toomua of the Brumbies runs the ball, Brumbies v Waratahs, Super Rugby, GIO Stadium, Canberra, March 15, 2014
Matt Toomua is in good form with the Brumbies in 2014 © Getty Images
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Toomua, who made his Test debut in 2013 under coach Ewen McKenzie, said he always wanted to remain in Canberra. "Knowing the rugby program there and knowing the coaches, the players, the town, the city, that all helps," Toomua said on Wednesday. "I've been loving it there. I feel like my game is progressing and I hope to continue to progress, and I think that's the best place for me for that to happen."

Toomua said that Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham was a major reason for his decision. "You can't really ask for much better. He's one of the best 10s ever in Australia," Toomua said. "Also, he's such a recent five-eighth. He still understands the game. It hasn't changed too much since he was playing."

Brumbies fans will be eager for Leali'ifano, 26, also to remain in the national capital.

"I really enjoy it there," Leali'ifano said on Wednesday. "I love playing there and it's where I started my career. We've just got to try and find out what is best for my career moving forward."

Leali'ifano played 13 Tests for the Wallabies in 2013 after making his international debut under McKenzie, and he is one of Toomua's direct opponents for a place in the national team.

At the Brumbies, the pair have forged a formidable midfield combination and are one of the prime reasons behind the side's rise to Super Rugby title contenders.

"I'm not sure where Christian's at with his contract negotiations, but I'd love to have him down there," Toomua said.

Christian Leali'ifano wants "what is best for his career moving forward" © Scrum.com
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© AAP

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