The Queensland Reds today flew out to London for their ground-breaking pre-season tour to prepare for Super Rugby Pacific.
Whatever is thrown at the 34-strong playing group in terms of harsh weather and different opposition is all aimed at building the resilience of the Reds for the 2025 season.
Matches against Bristol in Bristol (January 31) and Ulster in Belfast (February 7) are high-quality hitouts.
Both will sharpen the Reds to face Moana Pasifika and their new recruit Ardie Savea on February 21 when Super Rugby Pacific opens at Suncorp Stadium.
Young Reds backrower John Bryant is returning to play in Bristol after playing there for the Australia XV in November.
“Ashton Gate is an unreal stadium in terms of atmosphere,” Bryant said.
“I’ve definitely seen the value in developing my game with the Reds’ international games against Wales and Tonga last year.
“You learn and better understand different types of footy. The UK teams always throw big bodies at you and I know, first hand, that Bristol can run at you from anywhere.
“All these experiences build us into a stronger team.”
As assistant coach of the Australia XV, Reds assistant coach Zane Hilton has that headstart on knowing what to expect from Bristol.
“The Bears are really well coached. Playing with width and creativity all starts with their strong scrum and the best maul in the English Premiership,” Hilton said.
“It’s a great first-up challenge for us on tour.”
The Reds have 17 Wallabies in their ranks for the first full-cap tour to Europe by a Queensland team since 1990.
