Author: Patrick Gillett

Reds team named

Queensland Reds head coach Brad Thorn has named his first team of the 2021 Super Rugby AU season for Friday night’s season opener against the Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium.

Up to three players could potentially make their Super Rugby and Queensland debuts with hooker Richie Asiata, lock Ryan Smith and outside back Ilaisa Droasese all named on the bench.

It’s set to be a memorable night for starting hooker Alex Mafi who will celebrate his 50th cap for Queensland.

Tighthead prop Feao Fotuaika will play his first game of Rugby in more than 12 after overcoming a foot injury suffered against the Brumbies at GIO Stadium back in January last year.

The versatile Seru Uru will add to his two Queensland caps after being named at lock with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto currently suspended after he was shown a red-card during the Wallabies draw with Argentina late last year.

Angus Scott-Young will start at blindside flanker in the absence of captain Liam Wright who is sidelined with a high-ankle sprain.

Stand-in skipper James O’Connor will again partner Tate McDermott in the halves, while Queensland’s backline boasts three Australian Test stars as Filipo Daugunu and Jordan Petaia present a formidable sight on either wing with Hunter Paisami at outside centre.

“How good is to have rugby back,” said Thorn.

“It’s the first time in four years we’ve had a home game to kick-off the season, so we’re looking forward to playing some entertaining footy in front our Queensland fans.

“Three guys could make their debuts which is a great thing to recognise. They’ve worked hard in the pre-season and deserve their selection.

“Alex Mafi will also play his 50th game for Queensland which is an awesome achievement. As a group we congratulate him on reaching this milestone.

“The Waratahs will provide a tough contest. There’s plenty of tradition and rivalry between the two teams as well, so we’re looking forward to a good hit-out on Friday night,” Thorn added.

The Reds will be looking to reclaim the Bob Templeton Cup with victory at Suncorp Stadium after New South Wales won back the cup following their win at the SCG in August last year.

St.George Queensland Reds v Waratahs – Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane on 19 February at 6:45pm AEST

  1. Dane Zander – Norths
  2. Alex Mafi – Bond University
  3. Feao Fotuaika – Sunnybank
  4. Angus Blyth – Bond University
  5. Seru Uru* – Easts
  6. Angus Scott-Young – University of Queensland
  7. Fraser McReight – Brothers
  8. Harry Wilson – Brothers
  9. Tate McDermott – University of Queensland
  10. James O’Connor – Brothers ©
  11. Filipo Daugunu – Wests
  12. Hamish Stewart – Brothers
  13. Hunter Paisami – Wests
  14. Jordan Petaia – Wests
  15. Jock Campbell – University of Queensland
  16. Richie Asiata** – Easts
  17. Harry Hoopert – Brothers
  18. Taniela Tupou – Brothers
  19. Ryan Smith** – Brothers
  20. Tuania Taii Tualima – GPS
  21. Moses Sorovi – Wests
  22. Bryce Hegarty – GPS
  23. Ilaisa Droasese** – Wests

*denotes starting Super Rugby and Queensland debut
**denotes potential Super Rugby and Queensland debut

Interview with Caloundra captain Wally Wright between innings

We caught up with Caloundra cricket captain Wally Wright during Saturday’s cancellation induced one dayer.

The game was originally meant to be a two day game but week one was cancelled due to lockdown in Greater Brisbane.

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Continue reading “Interview with Caloundra captain Wally Wright between innings”