Queensland Reds set to blood host of rookies against Tonga
In the absence of a host of Wallabies representatives, Reds coach Les Kiss has named a side that blends some experienced campaigners with a host of rookies.
'Playing against Tonga is a wonderful opportunity both for our seasoned players and for our young players earning their first cap,' Kiss said.
'We know what the Tongans will bring in terms of power and intent because they've chosen the Reds as final preparation for their World Cup qualifiers.
'Senior players like Jock Campbell, Sef Fa'agase, Seru Uru, Kalani Thomas, Josh Canham and Lachie Anderson will be very important for us.
'We have some exciting young players stepping up.'
Friday's clash against Tonga Rugby Union will be broadcast live on the Queensland Reds' YouTube channel! https://t.co/ISvfBmSeSx pic.twitter.com/GMc8UTEBFP
— Queensland Reds (@Reds_Rugby) August 13, 2025
A certain debutant is former Australian under-18 captain Tom Robinson, the son of former Wallaby Brett Robinson.
'It's definitely made a big difference training against the Reds squad this season,' the 19-year-old flanker said.
'Each level you go up, it forces you to lift your skills in a stronger and faster environment.'
The other seven players with a chance of making a debut – Theo Fourie, Ollie Harris, Trevor King, Charlie Brosnan, James Martens, Xavier Rubens and Will McCulloch – have been named on Queensland's bench.
Junior Wallabies halfback Martens is the son of former Sharks and Springboks No.9 Hentie Martens.
'Mentally, I always see space and opportunities on the field,' the young half said.
'That's always something Dad has helped me with in terms of when to quick tap or why you might do things.
'Playing first grade this season (for GPS) has really helped me control games a lot better.'
Reds: Sef Fa'agase, George Blake, Nick Bloomfield, Connor Vest, Josh Canham, Seru Uru, Tom Robinson, Joe Brial, Kalani Thomas, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Tim Ryan, Dre Pakeho, Isaac Henry, Lachie Anderson, Jock Campbell. Bench: Theo Fourie, Ollie Harris, Trevor King, Charlie Brosnan, Hamish Muller, James Martens, Xavier Rubens, Will McCulloch.
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