Cubelli back, on bench

BRUMBIES half-back Tomas Cubelli looks set to be used off the bench when he returns to Super Rugby, with Joe Powell likely to retain the No.9 jersey.

The 28-year-old Pumas star returned to rugby after four months on the sidelines with a knee injury in the ACTbased franchise’s exhibition match against the Asia-Pacific Dragons in Singapore on Thursday night.

His comeback was overshadowed by that of inspirational teammate Christian Lealiifano, who made his first appearance since being diagnosed with cancer in August.

Assistant coach Dan McKellar said Cubelli and Powell were competing for one spot.