Michael Lynagh’s son Tom to make his Super Rugby Pacific debut for Queensland

His father was an all-time great for Queensland and Australia, and now Tom Lynagh has been given the chance to shine in a Reds jersey.

The son of Queensland and Wallabies great Michael Lynagh will make his Super Rugby Pacific debut in Townsville on Saturday night.

Italy-born Tom Lynagh, who moved to Australia in 2021 from his England base to become part of the Queensland program, has been named at flyhalf in the Reds team for their opening match of the season against the Hurricanes.

“Tom Lynagh will debut at 10 and he’s earned his spot over the pre-season,” Reds coach Brad Thorn said.

“We’re looking forward to seeing him in a Queensland jersey.”

Reds debutant Tom Lynagh (right) is following in the footsteps of his father Michael Lynagh. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Dan Peled

A reported ankle injury suffered by experienced flyhalf James O’Connor opened the door for 19-year-old Lynagh to partner Reds co-captain Tate McDermott in the halves.

Elsewhere, the versatile Jordan Petaia will start at fullback ahead of Jock Campbell, who remains sidelined after undergoing minor ankle surgery.

Also out with an ankle problem is winger Suliasi Vunivalu, while co-captain and flanker Liam Wright is sidelined with concussion.

Thorn said the Reds were “excited” to kick-off their season in Townsville.

“We’ve built some strong relationships and connections across the state during our Reds to Regions tours,” the Queensland coach said.

“We had a really enjoyable time in Townsville in 2021 when we played the Chiefs in front of a great crowd.

“The Hurricanes are a tough opposition that we have a lot of respect for.”

Queensland Reds: Dane Zander, Matt Faessler, Zane Nonggorr, Ryan Smith, Lopeti Faifua, Seru Uru, Ratu Kadavulevu, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott, Tom Lynagh, Filipo Daugunu, Isaac Henry, Hunter Paisami, Josh Flook, Jordan Petaia. Bench: Richie Asiata, Sef Fa’agase, Peni Ravai, Jake Upfield, Connor Anderson, Kalani Thomas, Lawson Creighton.

Originally published as Michael Lynagh’s son Tom to make his Super Rugby Pacific debut for Queensland