Brial Commits to Reds, Eyes Wallabies World Cup Berth
Joe Brial, the promising back-rower, has inked a new two-year contract with the Queensland Reds, securing his future at the club until at least 2028. This significant decision underscores Brial’s ambition to stake his claim for a spot in Australia’s squad for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, with his immediate focus firmly set on his performances for Queensland.
“Any goals I have around a home World Cup next year come from what I do at the Reds,” Brial stated. “I’m not too caught up in anything but performing for Queensland. It’s an exciting time for rugby in Queensland. We have a good group at the Reds with more strength coming through.”
The Sydney-born talent, who made his Reds debut in 2024, has already amassed 27 appearances for the Queensland side. He attributes his significant development to the calibre of players and coaches he’s been working with.
“This is my third season around international back-rowers like Harry (Wilson) and Fraser (McReight), and Liam Wright before that, plus the world-class coaching here,” Brial explained. “Development has come through in my defence, attack … everything.”
Brial’s impressive form did not go unnoticed, earning him a coveted spot in an Anzac XV. This formidable team, under the tutelage of current Reds mentor Les Kiss, faced the formidable British and Irish Lions in a highly anticipated clash last year.
Reds coach Les Kiss lauded Brial’s capabilities, describing him as more than just a physically imposing player. “Joe is a big lad. It’s not just strength and power but a smart game that he brings,” Kiss commented. “He’s being used more in lineouts, for example. He’s made massive improvements over the past two years and he understands he has to continue to work on his game to get better still.”
Brial was a key figure in the Reds’ opening match of the Super Rugby Pacific season, featuring in their round 1 loss against the NSW Waratahs on February 13. After a well-deserved bye weekend, the Queenslanders are set to resume their campaign this Friday night at the iconic Suncorp Stadium, facing off against the Highlanders.
Looking beyond the domestic competition, the Reds have also announced an exciting two-match tour of Italy scheduled for November. This international excursion will see Queensland lock horns with an Italy XV and Benetton Treviso, a club with whom the Reds share a strong partnership. This tour presents a valuable opportunity for Brial and his teammates to test themselves against different styles of play and gain further international experience.
The commitment from Brial signals a strong belief in the direction the Queensland Reds are heading. With a blend of established talent and emerging stars like Brial, the club is building a squad with the potential to challenge for top honours. His continued development under the guidance of Les Kiss and the experienced coaching staff is expected to be crucial in his quest to represent the Wallabies on the world stage. The Super Rugby Pacific season will be a key proving ground for Brial, as he aims to consistently deliver standout performances that will catch the eye of national selectors. His decision to stay in Queensland is a clear indication of his dedication to the Reds’ cause and his long-term vision for his rugby career.
