Ben Alexander is on track to break George Smith's record for most Brumbies caps after overcoming a knee injury which denied him the milestone earlier in the year.
Alexander was preparing to play his 143rd Super Rugby match for the ACT-based franchise against the Melbourne Rebels before the June Test break, but a training injury just days before the match dashed his hopes.
After returning to full fitness, the veteran prop has put his hand up for selection in the Brumbies' clash with Smith's Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium next Friday night.
The only thing standing in his way is the club's rich front row stocks.
"If I'm not picked it's not because of injury," Alexander said on Friday.
"We've got a really good bunch of props."
Scott Sio and Allan Alaalatoa return from Wallabies duty, while Nic Mayhew and Leslie Leuluaialii-Makin will also be in the mix.
"I've got to absolutely bust my arse and keep training standards high," Alexander said.
The 32-year-old will remain at the club in 2018 after signing a one-year deal to stay in Canberra under incoming coach Dan McKellar.
McKellar, who is currently the forwards coach, said he would have input into whether Alexander plays, but the final decision rests with Stephen Larkham.
"BA was playing well before he got injured so I'm sure he'll be there or thereabouts," McKellar said.
Alexander, who has 72 Wallabies caps, is confident his 10th Super Rugby season won't be his last.
"I've got a few years left," he said.
"I'm just trying to keep up with Josh Mann-Rea at the moment. He's four years older than me and if he keeps going I've got no excuse to hang up the boots."
Alexander and Mann-Rea will provide the young squad with experience next year along with inspirational co-captain Christian Lealiifano and returning star David Pocock.
Alexander said he would be honoured to pass Smith's record, describing him as a legend of the game.
"He's such a revolutionary player. He changed how the game is played."
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