As coach Les Kiss freshens his side, Wallabies captain Harry Wilson will lead the Queensland Reds out against the Highlanders on Saturday.
Wilson becomes the 129th Reds captain in their history, almost seven months after being appointed Australian skipper.
Watch every game of SMARTECH Super Rugby Pacific live and on-demand via Stan Sport.
“I feel very privileged to be able to captain Queensland,” Wilson said in a statement.
“I’ve always liked to lead in my own way and help the team in any way I can. It just happens I’ll have the (c) next to my name this week.
“A week later, I’ll probably be back to my normal role.
“I definitely feel more relaxed in this captaincy situation because of the Wallabies experiences I had last year. I just want to really enjoy this with a squad that has the opportunity to go to New Zealand and get a win in a city where we haven’t done so for 12 years.”
It comes with Tate McDermott, Liam Wright, Matt Faessler, Ryan Smith and Fraser McReight all on the sidelines.
As a result, Kalani Thomas and John Bryant start for the first time in 2025, with Angus Blyth partnering with Josh Canham in the second row.
“’JB’ played very well with his opportunities at No.7 last year against the Highlanders and Blues. Kalani has made a difference every time he’s come off the bench this season,” Wilson said.
“We pride ourselves on players being ready to step up when chances come and on big performances away from home.”
Richie Asiata starts after his 20 metre rolling maul during last week’s win over the NSW Waratahs.
As confirmed by Kiss, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto returns to the bench after a leg injury, with Louis Werchon and Dre Pakeho added to the bench.
“We have a game we think we can win with. We just have to put it on the park with the balance we have been working on,” Kiss said.
“Harry has been part of our leadership group from the start this season and his presence in the locker room makes him the ideal man for the captaincy this week.
“Guys like John Bryant and Joe Brial step up for us with lots of qualities and Lukhan is a massive addition who will add leadership as well.”
REDS (1-15): Sef Fa'agase, Richie Asiata, Zane Nonggorr, Josh Canham, Angus Blyth, Seru Uru, John Bryant, Harry Wilson (c), Kalani Thomas, Tom Lynagh, Tim Ryan, Hunter Paisami, Filipo Daugunu, Lachie Anderson, Heremaia Murray
Replacements: George Blake, Alex Hodgman, Massimo De Lutiis, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Joe Brial, Louis Werchon, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Dre Pakeho
