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Lealiifano set sights on return

According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, the bone marrow transplant has sent his leukaemia into remission.

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The 29-year-old Lealiifano received his diagnosis six months ago and underwent the transplant late last year.

With all the signs positive, he says his next target is returning to the field to train and play for his Super Rugby team the Brumbies.

"The bone marrow transplant was a big success. The blood cells in my body are now 100 percent my sister's blood cells, so in theory that should show that I'm in remission," Lealiifano told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

"I'm taking it day by day, and if I get a chance to run around with the team again, that's an extra bonus,"

Lealiifano said his specialist shares his high hopes for the future.

"He's pretty optimistic with how it's all gone. We've still got a long way to go but at the moment we've had some great news so far with this little milestone," he said.

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The Brumbies have previously told him he could join the franchise's coaching staff if the illness puts his playing career on hold.

Lealiifano, who has played 19 Tests, was diagnosed with cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow in August.

Agence France-Presse

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