Reds Reveal 2026 Squad: Youth and Experience Collide in Perth Trial
The Queensland Reds have unveiled their first team for 2026, signaling a blend of established talent and exciting new prospects as they prepare for the Swyftx Super Rugby Pacific season. A key trial match against the Western Force in Perth this Friday will provide the first glimpse of this evolving squad in action.
Flyhalf Battle: McLaughlin-Phillips and Gordon to Share Duties
One of the most intriguing aspects of the team selection is the planned sharing of the flyhalf role between Harry McLaughlin-Phillips and Carter Gordon. McLaughlin-Phillips, who has reportedly impressed during pre-season training, will start, while Gordon will come off the bench. This approach suggests Head Coach Les Kiss is keen to evaluate both players in a competitive environment and potentially develop a dual-playmaker system. The Reds’ success in 2025 hinged on consistent playmaking, and this rotation could be a strategic move to ensure depth and adaptability.
Rising Stars Get Their Chance
Beyond the established names, the Reds are clearly investing in the future. Talented teenager Nicholas Conway will debut at fullback, a position demanding both speed and composure under pressure. At No.8, the powerful Vaiuta Latu (116kg) steps up, showcasing the Reds’ commitment to developing physical presence in the forward pack. Latu’s inclusion follows strong performances in recent matches against Tonga and the Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights, demonstrating a clear pathway for emerging talent. This mirrors a trend across Super Rugby Pacific, where teams are increasingly relying on identifying and nurturing young players.
Wallabies Core Provides Stability
Despite the influx of youth, the Reds aren’t abandoning experience. Nine Wallabies are included in the 29-strong squad travelling to Perth, providing a crucial core of leadership and international calibre. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Josh Canham form a formidable lock pairing, while Hunter Paisami and Lachie Anderson bring proven quality to the backline. This balance is vital for guiding the younger players and maintaining a competitive edge.
Strategic Trial Format & Rivalry Renewed
The trial match against the Western Force will be played in three 30-minute periods, allowing Kiss to maximize playing time for his squad. Both teams will utilize extended benches, further emphasizing the focus on evaluation and development. The Reds and Force share a fierce rivalry, with their 2025 Super Rugby Pacific encounters decided by narrow four-point margins. This history adds extra spice to the upcoming clash.
The Broader Trend: Investing in Youth Across Super Rugby
The Reds’ approach aligns with a broader trend across Super Rugby Pacific. Teams are increasingly prioritizing the development of local talent, recognizing the long-term benefits of a strong homegrown base. The Brumbies, for example, have consistently produced Wallabies through their academy system, while the Chiefs in New Zealand are renowned for their ability to identify and nurture emerging players. This investment in youth is driven by several factors, including financial constraints and the desire to create a sustainable pathway for Australian rugby. A recent report by Rugby Australia highlighted a 15% increase in participation rates among youth players in the past year, indicating a growing pipeline of talent.
Did you know? The Western Force have significantly invested in their own youth development programs in recent years, making this trial a showcase of emerging talent from both sides.
Looking Ahead: The Second Trial and Season Preparation
Following the Perth trial, the Reds will face the NSW Waratahs at Ballymore Stadium on January 31st. This second trial will provide another opportunity for players to showcase their skills and for Kiss to fine-tune his squad ahead of the Super Rugby Pacific season. The coach emphasized the importance of seeing “growth” in the areas they’ve been working on during pre-season.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the performances of Nicholas Conway and Vaiuta Latu in these trials. They represent the future of the Reds and could become key players in the Super Rugby Pacific season.
FAQ
Q: Where will the trial match against the Western Force be played?
A: Scotch College, Perth.
Q: What time does the trial match kick off?
A: 6:35pm Qld time.
Q: How many Wallabies are in the Reds squad for the Perth trial?
A: Nine.
Q: Will all the Reds players get a chance to play in the trials?
A: Most of the squad will get opportunities across the two trials.
Q: What is the format of the trial match?
A: Three 30-minute periods.
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