Rathbone to return

Clyde Rathbone will pull on a Brumbies jersey for the first time in 17 months when ACT plays a trial match against the Australian Sevens at Griffith Oval on Friday.

Rathbone hasn't played since Week 9 of the 2007 Super 14 season, but will make his return after successfully recovering from a long-term knee injury.

Four of the Brumbies' six new recruits have also been included in the 16-man squad, with Ben Hand, James Stannard, Sitaleki Timani and former Australian Sevens captain Shawn Mackay all playing their first match for the club.

Brumbies Coach Andy Friend concedes there are many differences in the abridged version of the game but said many benefits can be taken from Friday’s match.

"As a player you are a lot more exposed in a game of Sevens and everything you do on the field is magnified," he said.

"We need to match up defensively and this is a great opportunity for these guys to use the extra space and show what they can do."

"Friday’s trial will have little bearing on our selection for the Super 14 season but it will give these guys a chance to blow out the cobwebs, get some football under their belts and get some match fitness."

"It’s also a great opportunity for our members and supporters to see these guys in full flight and playing some entertaining football."

The Brumbies and Australian Sevens will play two matches, each of seven-minute halves.