Reds to welcome back James O’Connor and Jordan Petaia for trial against the Waratahs

Having recovered from Covid-19, some key Reds, including James O’Connor and Jordan Petaia, will return to Queensland duty this weekend.

Jordan Petaia has recovered from Covid-19. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Key trio James O’Connor, Jordan Petaia and Jock Campbell have been named in the Queensland Reds side to meet NSW in Saturday’s trial in Roma after recovering from Covid-19.

Wallabies pair O’Connor and Petaia, as well as Campbell, missed last weekend’s trial loss to Western Force after testing positive to the virus.

Coach Brad Thorn also returns to duty after also being an absentee last Saturday at Ballymore due to Covid-19.

“The Waratahs will provide tough competition,” Thorn said.

“With the season kicking off next week, it’ll be a good contest between both sides.”

Jordan Petaia returns for the Reds this weekend. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images for Rugby Australia

Wallabies duo Tate McDermott and Hunter Paisami, who tested positive to Covid-19 this week, will miss the match.

Co-captain McDermott’s halfback spot will be filled by young gun Kalani Thomas.

Hooker Josh Nasser’s two-try performance off the bench last weekend has earnt him a spot in Saturday’s starting team.

Wallabies prop Taniela Tupou will make his first appearance of the pre-season via the bench.

Teenage fly half Tom Lynagh, the son of Queensland and Wallabies great Michael Lynagh, is being rested this weekend after impressive performance against the Force.

Reds: Dane Zander, Josh Nasser, Feao Fotuaika, Angus Blyth, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Liam Wright (c), Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Kalani Thomas, James O’Connor, Filipo Daugunu, Hamish Stewart, Josh Flook, Jordan Petaia, Jock Campbell. Bench: Alex Mafi, Harry Hoopert, Taniela Tupou, Seru Uru, Angus Scott-Young, Spencer Jeans, Floyd Aubrey, Mac Grealy, Ryan Smith, Lawson Creighton, Taj Annan.