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Lealiifano committed to future at Brumbies

The Wallaby flyhalf – who was diagnosed with leukaemia in August 2016 – made a long-awaited return during Brumbies' Super Rugby quarterfinal loss in July.

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The New Zealand-born Lealiifano was diagnosed with cancer that affects the blood and had a bone-marrow transplant operation after a successful match with his sister.

The 29-year-old revealed that the battle with cancer has changed his perspective on life and has made him a better person.  

"This journey has Massively changed my out look my outlook on life – [I have realised that] rugby is a small part of it.

"Everybody says your perspective change when you have a child, which is true – but then you get leukaemia and go through that… then everything else changes even more

"I am really, really grateful and I said it before I would go through this 10 times again, just for the person I am today.

Thus far, the 29-year-old has been linked with Pro14 side Ulster.

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However, Lealiifano has diluted the accuracy of the rumours when he stated that his future is at the Brumbies.

"The Brumbies have an exciting year to look forward to, especially the return of David Pocock and the calibre of players they have been signing. Furthermore, just what the group of 2017 have been through will add value to the 2018 side.  

"The Brumbies have been amazing in helping through my journey and in honouring my contract. The best thing I can do put my best foot forward and help the franchise grow," Lealiifano told the media.  

"I am excited about next season," he added.

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While, Australia are currently in preparation for the Bledisloe opener against New Zealand on Saturday.

Lealiifano – who has played 19 Tests for Australia – is solely focused on his health and fitness.

But has revealed that he will follow the Wallabies closely, especially with most of his teammates in action on August 18.

"[A return to the Wallabies is] something I haven’t thought about a lot.

"Obviously I will watch them and follow them closely. I have Brumbies teammates and close friends in the Wallabies side who has supported me throughout my journey.

"However, as far as the Wallabies jersey I haven’t thought of it much.

"For now, I just want work thought each day and each game. I only played 40 minutes of footy on a high level and the key is just to get onto the next chapter.

"If Wallabies come down the track than so be it," he added.

@rugby365.com

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