Rugby: Huxley returns for Brumbies

Julian Huxley is back playing for the Brumbies, two years after suffering a brain tumour. Photo / Getty Images

CANBERRA - Two years after a brain tumour threatened to end his rugby career Julian Huxley is set to make his return in the Brumbies Super 14 clash against the Chiefs in Canberra on Friday night.

The former Wallabies utility back has been named on the Brumbies bench for the match as one of three new faces in the squad.

Huxley's career was put on hold in 2008 after routine scans following a head knock detected a brain tumour.

He received clearances to play three weeks ago and has put in two quality performances for the Brumbies reserves team.

The Brumbies starting line up has seen several changes following a 39-34 loss to the Blues in Auckland last Friday.

Eighteen-year-old Michael Hooper will make his Super 14 debut in the starting 15 at open side flanker.

The former Australia `A' schoolboys backrower replaces George Smith who will miss the first match for the Brumbies since their Week 11 encounter against the Chiefs in 2005.

- AAP