Suncorp Stadium will remain the battleground for Fraser McReight’s rugby future, with the star flanker committing to Australian Rugby and the Queensland Reds until 2028. The 26-year-old, widely regarded as one of the best openside flankers in the game, turned down significant overseas offers to stay in Queensland, ensuring he remains a key figure in Australia’s rugby revival.
McReight’s re-signing was confirmed on Friday, 14 March, solidifying his place in the Wallabies’ long-term plans. His decision to stay comes ahead of a critical period for Australian rugby, including this year’s British and Irish Lions tour and the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil.
Loyalty to Queensland and the Wallabies
Despite attracting interest from overseas clubs, McReight chose to continue his journey in Australia. He said his passion for representing Queensland and the Wallabies played a major role in his decision, along with the opportunity to contribute to a national rebuilding effort.
“There were other offers, but my heart has always been with the Reds and the Wallabies,” McReight stated. He sees the next few years as crucial for Australian rugby and wants to be part of the team’s resurgence.
The flanker’s decision aligns with the choices of several other top players, including Wallabies captain Harry Wilson, who have opted to remain in the domestic competition rather than chase lucrative contracts overseas. Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss emphasised McReight’s value, calling him one of the best No.7s in world rugby and a leader within the team.
A Career on the Rise
McReight’s impact on the game has been undeniable. In 2024, he was named Australian Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, earned the RUPA Medal for Excellence, and won the Pilecki Medal as Queensland’s best player.
The backrower made his professional debut for the Queensland Reds in 2019 and played his first Test for the Wallabies in 2020. Since then, he has amassed 77 Super Rugby caps and 25 Test caps, cementing his status as a core player in Australia’s international setup.
Queensland Rugby Union CEO David Hanham praised McReight’s commitment, noting that he has a strong connection with the team and the local community. “He wants to be here, playing with his mates and pushing Australian rugby forward,” Hanham said.
A Key Player for Australia’s Future
Rugby Australia’s high-performance director Peter Horne highlighted McReight’s role in shaping the Wallabies’ future. With a major international calendar ahead, including the highly anticipated British and Irish Lions tour this year and the 2027 Rugby World Cup, his presence in the squad is considered a major boost.
“Fraser has established himself as a regular in the Wallabies lineup and will play a key role as we prepare for some of the biggest rugby events in Australia’s history,” Horne said.
McReight’s leadership and on-field influence are expected to help guide a new era for the Wallabies, as the team looks to rebuild and compete at the highest level.
His re-signing also strengthens the Queensland Reds, who have secured key players such as Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Matt Faessler, and Jeremy Williams, ensuring the squad remains competitive in Super Rugby Pacific.
A Home-Grown Star Staying Put
McReight’s rugby journey started in Queensland, where he played for the Albany Creek Brumbies before progressing through the ranks at Brisbane Grammar School. He later captained the Junior Wallabies to an Oceania Under-20s title, setting the foundation for his professional career.
His decision to stay in Australian rugby, rather than accept lucrative overseas offers, underscores his deep connection to Queensland and his desire to see the Wallabies return to the top of world rugby. With Suncorp Stadium set to host key matches in the coming years, fans can expect to see McReight leading from the front, both for the Reds and the Wallabies.
Published 18-March-2025
