The Queensland Reds are making final preparations for their highly anticipated match against the NSW Waratahs, with a number of exciting changes to their starting lineup. Joe Brial and Connor Vest are set to take the field for the Reds, with Brial making his first run-on role at No.8 and Vest starting at lock, replacing Ryan Smith. Both players have demonstrated exceptional determination and skill throughout the Super Rugby Pacific season, earning them their places in the team for this crucial clash.
This game holds significant importance for Australian rugby, as it is the oldest rivalry in the country. Reds head coach Les Kiss has emphasized the gravity of the match and has underscored the team’s focus on securing a victory. The Templeton Cup is at stake, and the Reds are resolute in their determination to emerge victorious.
In terms of the Reds’ game strategy, Lawson Creighton will be taking on the role of flyhalf, with Tom Lynagh providing support from the bench. Coach Kiss has expressed his confidence in both players, highlighting Creighton’s form and Lynagh’s recent strong performance against the Western Force.
It is also noteworthy to mention Joe Brial’s personal connection to this game. Having spent his childhood between Queenstown and Sydney, Brial holds the unique achievement of representing both the Junior Wallabies and New Zealand Under-20s. Additionally, he has a family legacy to uphold, with his father having captained the Waratahs on his journey to playing for the Wallabies in the 1990s.
For Brial, the opportunity to start against the Waratahs in Sydney is a dream come true. He has proven himself in his previous appearances off the bench and is ready to elevate his game to the next level. With his family in attendance, including his father wearing a special cap for the occasion, Brial is poised to make the most of this significant moment in his career.
The match is set to take place at Allianz Stadium in Sydney, and rugby fans can catch the action live on Stan Sport. It is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams fully prepared to give their all in this classic showdown.
The complete line-up for the Queensland Reds in the match against the NSW Waratahs is as follows:
1. Alex Hodgman
2. Matt Faessler
3. Zane Nonggorr
4. Connor Vest
5. Seru Uru
6. Liam Wright (cc)
7. Fraser McReight
8. Joe Brial
9. Tate McDermott (cc)
10. Lawson Creighton
11. Mac Grealy
12. Hunter Paisami
13. Josh Flook
14. Tim Ryan
15. Jock Campbell
Reserves:
16. Josh Nasser
17. Peni Ravai
18. Jeffery Toomaga-Allen
19. Ryan Smith
20. John Bryant
21. Kalani Thomas
22. Tom Lynagh
23. Taj Annan
With this talented line-up and the determination to retain the Templeton Cup, the Reds are poised for an electrifying performance that fans won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for what promises to be an enthralling contest between these two fierce rivals.