Rugby: Huxley tells concerned fans to relax

Julian Huxley was on the receiving end of some big hits against the Cheetahs. Photo / Getty Images

SYDNEY - Former Wallabies back Julian Huxley has a message for all rugby fans who hold their breath every time he gets hit - relax.

Huxley has returned to first class rugby over the past month following two years out of the game after the removal of a brain tumour.

Playing just his second game for the Brumbies and making the first start of his comeback, Huxley was on the end of some big hits against the Cheetahs last Saturday.

On one occasion, near the end of the game, he was landed on his head in a dangerous tackle by Cheetahs No 8 Kabamba Floors who consequently copped a five-week suspension.

Huxley apparently appeared dazed during a post-match interview, but on Monday was quick to reassure people he was fine.

"I've copped a fair few knocks at training and in the games over the last month," Huxley said.

"Nothing other than what we thought would happen has happened, which is absolutely nothing.

"I think people will carry their own worries and insecurities about me out there, but they need to know that the best in the field have cleared me to play and they have been proven right over the last month with me being subject to some heavy testing and I've come through it fine.

"I'd say to everyone relax and enjoy it as much as I'm enjoying being out there."

Huxley said he took a couple of knocks on Saturday, including one just before halftime which left him dazed at the time, but he had suffered no lingering affects.

He said he didn't feel he had been singled out for treatment by opposing teams and being tested had just given him more confidence.

Asked for his reaction to Floors' suspension, Brumbies coach Andy Friend said "if you tip someone up on their head it probably deserves five weeks".

Friend is awaiting further information on knee ligament damage to five-eighth Matt Toomua.

His biggest injury worry in the lead-up to Friday's home clash with the Hurricanes is forward Mitchell Chapman, who is struggling with a hip problem.

Centre Stirling Mortlock (back) and halfback Josh Valentine (hamstring), both of whom missed the Cheetahs game, could be in the running to return for this week's fixture.

- AAP