FORMER LEINSTER SECOND row Brad Thorn has named his first squad as Queensland Reds head coach ahead of the 2018 Super Rugby season, which gets underway in February.
The 59-time capped All Black had been part of the coaching staff with the Reds’ elite development squad and was promoted to the senior head coach role following the sacking of Nick Stiles last month.
Thorn will be assisted in his debut season in charge by former Munster director of rugby Tony McGahan, who had been head coach of the Melbourne Rebels up until last season.
The Australian franchise have also announced the appointment of Wallabies winger Paul Carozza as part of the shake-up to its coaching staff for 2018 as the Reds look to reverse their fortunes after last year’s disastrous campaign.
Thorn’s panel contains 10 new signings, seven of which he has brought with him from Queensland Country who won last year’s NRC title, including leading try scorer Filipo Daugunu, while a number of players have been promoted from the Reds’ pathway programmes.
Among those retained from last season is former Leinster lock Kane Douglas while Wallabies Lukhan Tui, Izack Rodda, Samu Kerevi, James Slipper, George Smith, Scott Higginbotham and Taniela Tupou are all included.
“We’ve managed to keep a fairly consistent squad for 2018, but we’ve also rewarded a lot of new players for their hunger and hard work throughout the 2017 season,” Thorn said.
“I’m pleased to see them get their opportunity to be part of the Reds squad.
“It’s good to be back at Ballymore and into the thick of pre-season. We’ve got a lot of hard work ahead of us, but we’re excited by the challenge. Everyone you’ll see in Reds colours in 2018 will have worked extremely hard to get there.”
The Reds get their campaign up and running against the Rebels on 23 February.
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