Queensland’s upcoming double-header in Tonga has garnered increased excitement, particularly with Harry Wilson eyeing a comeback on July 26th.
The talented Reds number eight seemed poised for a Wallabies call-up following an impressive performance in Super Rugby Pacific. However, his hopes were dashed when he suffered a broken arm during the Round 12 match against the Melbourne Rebels.
Wilson underwent surgery last week and is now aiming for an eight-week recovery period, setting his sights on the Tonga internationals in July as a potential return to the field.
“I will undoubtedly be fit in July to be considered for this exceptional trip,” stated Wilson. “It is thrilling to have back-to-back matches in the Queensland jersey against two very different international sides. I was fortunate enough to travel to Tonga last year with Australia A, so I am aware of the tremendous local support. The stadium was so packed, observers were perched in trees. They may only cheer for one team, but it is rather remarkable to experience it from the opposing side.”
In addition to the men’s fixtures, the upcoming tour also marks the end of a 28-year drought for touring women’s sides, with Reds halfback Nat Wright expressing her eagerness to embrace this new challenge in Nuku’alofa.
“The Matildas demonstrated that there is a market for women in sport, and hopefully, we can achieve a similar impact in the future,” said Wright, highlighting the importance of women’s sports in such international events.
Tongan and Penina Pasifika halfback, Ana Ngahe, echoed this sentiment, noting that the women’s fixture would be “a life-changing moment for local Tongan girls.”
“The excitement from our players and fans will be tangible. I am certain that there will be an even greater level of support for women’s rugby in Tonga after this game,” said Ngahe, emphasizing the positive impact of such events on the local community.
For players like Easts Tigers prop Massimo De Lutiis, the Reds-Tonga fixtures represent an opportunity to showcase their skills in a new setting. De Lutiis, who returned from a 14-week injury layoff, is eager to put his name forward for the upcoming matches.
“We are all tremendously excited, particularly the young players. They are all looking forward to honing their skills by playing against an international team with varying styles of rugby,” De Lutiis shared. “I am definitely putting my name forward, but ultimately, it is up to the coaches. I would love to play, and I would be thrilled to go to Tonga. I was a little envious of the boys going to Fiji, so I would welcome the opportunity to go.”
Overall, the anticipation is mounting as the Queensland teams prepare for their historic tour, with both the men’s and women’s fixtures poised to create indelible moments and offer valuable opportunities for the players involved.