Queensland Reds and Wallabies lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto didn't mix his words when speaking about the ongoing growth within the young Reds side stating that "now we're seeing the fruits of our labour."
And it's this mantra of continual growth and culture which will be the key to the Reds success in the 2021 competition.
After a nail-biting finish in 2020, the Reds have well and truly removed their underdog status and are frontrunners this year.
With 90% of the squad having come through the Queensland Rugby pathway, there is no doubt within the side who they are playing for and who they represent in 2021!
WHO'S IN: Ben Grant, Hudson Creighton, Matt Faessler, Sam Wallis, Isaac Henry, Josh Flook, Zane Nonggorr, Mac Grealy, Kalani Thomas, Ilaisa Droasese, Kalani Thomas, Lawson Creighton, Ryan Smith and Suliasi Vunivalu
WHO'S OUT: Carter Gordon, Harry Hockings, Henry Speight, Isaac Lucas, Izack Rodda, Jack Hardy, JP Smith, Michael Wood, Sean Farrell, Scott Malolua, Ruan Smith and Tom Kibble.
ONE TO WATCH: Fraser McReight
The former Junior Wallabies captain had a breakout season in 2021. A Super Rugby debut before then being included in his first Wallabies squad, there is no doubt McReight is destined to be a household name.
Earning his Wallabies debut at the age of 21 he's been dubbed the next Queensland and Australian captain and will be a key asset for the Reds this season.
PREDICTION: 1st
The Reds are hungrier than ever this season. With their hands all but on the trophy in 2020 there isn’t a single squad member who isn’t haunted by seeing the Brumbies lift the trophy.
Adding more fuel to the emotive fire, 2021 marks ten years since the trophy cupboard at Ballymore was last opened. With the 2011 Super Rugby Title their most recent success at the premier level.
They’ll be a force to be reckon with, it’ll take some hard work, but we think they have what it takes to be Super Rugby Champions again!
2021 Queensland Reds Squad:
