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Australia players shave heads in Christian Lealiifano tribute

David Pocock with his shaved head in support of  Christian Lealiifano
Image: David Pocock with his shaved head in support of Christian Lealiifano

A number of Australia players have shaved their heads ahead of the Rugby Championship clash against New Zealand, in support of team-mate Christian Lealiifano who has leukaemia.

Will Genia, David Pocock, Matt Giteau and Matt Toomua were among those who had shaved their heads in a sign of solidarity for Lealiifano, who was diagnosed with the cancer in August.

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Lealiifano has been a standout performer for the ACT Brumbies in recent Super Rugby seasons, with 117 games and 19 tests for Australia.

Genia, who will play his first game of rugby since knee surgery in January said that Lealiifano would be in the back of their minds as he undergoes treatment in Canberra.

Australia and Brumbies back Christian Lealiifano
Image: Australia and Brumbies back Christian Lealiifano was diagnosed with leukaemia in August

"He's one of us, one of the boys so he's always in our thoughts and our prayers," said Genia on the Australian Rugby Union website.

"He's a good bloke so the guys will definitely have him in their thoughts when we get out there on Saturday."

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