'Everyone's older brother': Slipper bows out in Wallabies loss / Photo: COLIN MURTY - AFP
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'Everyone's older brother': Slipper bows out in Wallabies loss
Australia failed to produce a fairytale finish for stalwart James Slipper on Saturday against New Zealand but the Wallabies' most capped player walked away with plaudits and plenty of admiration.
The Wallabies fought hard in wet and slippery conditions at a sold-out Perth Stadium before falling 28-14, their 11th straight loss to the All Blacks.
All eyes were on 36-year-old Slipper, playing in his 151st and final Test after announcing his retirement during the week.
Slipper produced a trademark physical effort, helping the Wallabies start strongly as they controlled play for chunks of the first half despite trailing 17-9 at the interval.
Slipper was substituted just after the resumption, walking off to hearty applause from the crowd in the same city where he made his debut against England in 2010.
"He's pretty much everyone's older brother in the team and we love him," Wallabies captain Harry Wilson told reporters.
"He always says the right thing to you at the right time and he's always there offering advice.
"We definitely will really miss him around this group."
Slipper, who captained Australia 15 times, departs after a decorated career.
He is one of only three Australians, along with George Gregan and Adam Ashley-Cooper, to play at four World Cups.
He resisted the temptation of a 2027 World Cup on home soil.
New Zealand's players and staff warmly embraced Slipper after the match.
"It was great to be a part of the occasion," All Blacks coach Scott Robertson said.
"I know they'll be disappointed they couldn't do it for him, but won't take away from the hell of a career he's had.
"He's such a good man, and sort of the essence of why we play rugby."
T.Karagounis--AN-GR
