Rugby Rivalry Ignites: ACT Brumbies Take on Waratahs in High-Stakes Canberra Trial

Match Day: Super Rugby Pacific Pre-Season Trial

Canberra sports fans are in for a treat today, Thursday, 5 February 2026, as the ACT Brumbies host their traditional rivals, the NSW Waratahs, in a critical final pre-season trial. This high-intensity hit-out serves as the final preparation for both teams before the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season officially kicks off later this month. With the regular season just weeks away, coaches are looking to finalize their starting rotations and test the depth of their squads in match conditions.

In a move that brings elite rugby back to the community, the match is being held at the picturesque Marist College in Pearce. This grassroots setting offers fans a unique opportunity to see their heroes up close in a more intimate environment than the usual GIO Stadium atmosphere. Despite being a trial, matches between these two sides rarely lack physical edge, as players from both camps compete for spots in the Round 1 lineup and potentially catch the eyes of national selectors.

The Brumbies have named a formidable squad for today’s clash, signaling their intent to start the year with momentum. Wallabies veterans and rising stars are expected to feature, with the following details confirmed for today’s event:

• Match: ACT Brumbies vs. NSW Waratahs
• Venue: Marist College Canberra, 27 Marr St, Pearce, ACT
• Kick-off: 1:30 PM AEDT
• Entry: Check local club announcements for spectator access and ticketing details.

Fans attending today can expect to see a mix of established stars like James Slipper and Rob Valetini alongside explosive talents such as Corey Toole and Ryan Lonergan. For the Waratahs, the match represents a chance to test their defensive structures against one of the most consistent attacking units in the competition. The early afternoon kick-off is expected to draw a significant crowd of local students and rugby purists alike.

As this is the final trial before the premiership points are on the line, both sets of forwards will be looking to establish set-piece dominance early. For the Brumbies, a strong performance today at home will set the tone for what they hope will be a championship-contending 2026 campaign. Make sure to head down to Pearce early to secure a spot on the sidelines for this classic Australian rugby showdown.