Queensland Reds name former Wallaby Ben Tapuai to replace injured Samu Kerevi against Waratahs
THE withdrawal of centre Samu Kerevi is a major blow to the Queensland Reds, but it has been somewhat softened by the inclusion of Ben Tapuai.
QLD Reds
Don't miss out on the headlines from QLD Reds. Followed categories will be added to My News.
THE withdrawal of centre Samu Kerevi is a major blow to the Queensland Reds’ plan to match the power of the NSW Waratahs with some of their own at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.
Kerevi’s corked thigh ruled him out of selection contention but the Reds today had the luxury of naming former Wallaby Ben Tapuai in his place.
It will be Tapuai’s first match of the season after a hamstring issue ruled him out of two trials and the opening three rounds.
Tapuai adds some extra passing slickness, experience, a strong understanding in defence and a left boot to the backline.
What he can’t replace is Kerevi’s assertive running game and ability to shred defenders.
Kerevi’s 13 bullocking runs for 109m was the one shining light for the Reds when the Waratahs stormed Suncorp Stadium in the final round last year for a 34-3 victory.
Reds head coach Richard Graham does get back experienced lock James Horwill after a match off to repair badly gashed webbing on his left hand.
South African Marco Kotze moves to the reserves bench.
“James Horwill’s hand has mended well and it’s good to get him back. He has a lot of experience at this level which adds a good balance to the forward pack,” Graham said.
“Ben is itching to be involved after a longer than expected pre-season as a result of his hamstring injury. He has spent the last few weeks with the team and is familiar with the way we want to play.”
Graham said the great history of rivalry between Queensland and NSW always played a huge role to make every interstate clash special.
“This goes back over a 100 years. We cannot forget all those past players who have represented Queensland,” Graham said.
“Before Super Rugby this fixture would have been the biggest game most of them played in during their rugby careers.
“While today’s players have the opportunity to play a lot more games against many other teams we don’t forget the tradition of this game and those players who put Queensland rugby on the map.”
REDS (1-15): James Slipper, Saia Fainga’a, Sam Talakai, Dave McDuling, James Horwill, Adam Thomson, Liam Gill, Jake Schatz, Will Genia, James O’Connor, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Anthony Fainga’a, Ben Tapuai, Chris Kuridrani, Lachie Turner.
Reserves: James Hanson, Ben Daley, Sef Faagase, Marco Kotze, Curtis Browning, Nick frisby, Sam Johnson, Campbell Magnay.
Originally published as Queensland Reds name former Wallaby Ben Tapuai to replace injured Samu Kerevi against Waratahs
Wright close to returning for Reds
As desperate as Liam Wright is to return from a shoulder injury for the Reds, the Queenslanders aren’t expected to risk him while there is any doubt over his fitness.
Wallabies captain signs new deal
The Wallabies captain wants the `best years’ of his career to be with the Queensland Reds and the Wallabies.