Wallabies centre Hunter Paisami primed to make impact for Queensland Reds

Having been ‘managed’ through the start of the Super Rugby Pacific season, Wallabies centre Hunter Paisami is ready to shine for the Queensland Reds.

Queensland will belatedly unleash Hunter Paisami on Friday night, with Reds coach Brad Thorn predicting the Western Force will find it tough to contain the Wallabies centre at HBF Park.

The Reds, who are aiming for a hat-trick of Super Rugby Pacific wins, are yet to use Paisami this season due to a knee injury.

However, that’s set to change against the Force, with Paisami eager to make up for lost time.

“He’s a Wallaby, and he was in great form at the end of last year,” Thorn said of Paisami.

“He was getting managed into this season, and now we’ve got him back, he’ll add some punch.

“He’s really keen to get out there and he’s valued by the team.”

Wallabies centre Hunter Paisami is ready to roll for the Reds. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

As is hooker Josh Nasser, who will start a competitive match for the Reds for the first time.

“He’s been chipping away for a long time,” Thorn said.

“He was actually a tight-head prop and he made the move to hooker the year before last, and he’s put a lot of work into it.

“He’s a good prospect, so this is a great opportunity for him.”

The Reds flew to Perth on Thursday morning from flood-affected Brisbane.

“Everyone’s been helping everyone out around the city,” Thorn said.

“We’ve adapted, we’ve got on with stuff.

“We just got on with our work and we’ve got a real good, tough challenge against the Force in Perth.”