The squad features a strong mix of experience and exciting fresh talent in what will be the Reds only hit-out against a rival Super Rugby side ahead of the 2021 season.
Former schoolboy rugby sensation Suliasi Vunivalu is set to play his first game for Queensland after making the switch back to the 15-man code following a decorated career in the NRL with Melbourne.
There are an additional 10 uncapped Super Rugby players in the squad who will get their chance to impress in the Queensland jersey including former Reds Academy players Kalani Thomas, Mac Grealy and Ilaisa Droasese, plus Queensland Club Rugby products Matt Faessler, Ben Grant, Ryan Smith, Sam Wallis and siblings Lawson and Hudson Creighton.
The 25-man squad also boasts three Wallabies fresh from Test duties last year with Fraser McReight, Filipo Daugunu and Queensland captain Liam Wright all selected.
Reds head coach Brad Thorn said: “We’re looking forward to travelling to Narrabri and connecting with the community out there.
“It’s a good opportunity for some our new guys to step-up. They’ve worked hard in the pre-season and they’ll get their chance to show that on Friday night.
“The Waratahs will provide a good contest and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” said Thorn.
The match in Narrabri forms part of a three-day Santos Festival of Rugby including men’s and women’s 7s Rugby action, fan engagement activations and live music acts. CLICK HERE for further details.
The Reds play the Waratahs at Dangar Park in Narrabri tomorrow evening at 8:00pm AEDT and will be live streamed. You can watch the match on NSW Rugby TV - delivered on the Cluch TV app. Download via Apple or Android stores.
