Les Kiss concentrating on role as Queensland Reds despite likelihood that he will take charge of the Wallabies

Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss isn’t being distracted by talk that he will soon be confirmed as the man to take over from Wallabies mentor Joe Schmidt.

Reds mentor Les Kiss says he remains fully committed to guiding Queensland despite ongoing speculation that he’s about to be named as the man to replace Joe Schmidt as Wallabies coach.

Despite being contracted to the Reds until next year, Kiss is the hot favourite to take over from Schmidt when the New Zealander stands down in October.

“I’m absolutely happy with how it’s going,” Kiss said on Wednesday.

“I do know one thing – my full commitment is in this (Queensland Rugby Union) building behind me and the 80 minutes in the rectangle on the weekend.”

The Reds host the Blues at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night, with fullback Jock Campbell having been recalled to Queensland’s starting side as the hosts seek to avoid a third successive Super Rugby Pacific defeat.

Campbell has appeared twice off the bench since returning from a broken arm, but Kiss has decided to give the experienced custodian another chance in the No.15 jersey, at the expense of Heremaia Murray, who drops to the bench for the Anzac Day battle.

“It’s great to see Jock back in action,” Kiss said.

“He’s played off the bench in recent games and we know his experience will be massively important in a game like this.

“We know his ability in counter-attack, (and) his communication in organising the back three is also a trait of his experience.

“We have been delighted with how Heremaia Murray has contributed, and he will from the bench in this game.”

Tuning up for Anzac footy 🔥https://t.co/AClVlUXQrOpic.twitter.com/tnwfhFXrpW

— Queensland Reds (@Reds_Rugby) April 23, 2025

The fourth-placed Reds are refreshed for their clash with the reigning competition champions after having a bye on the Easter weekend.

Before that, they suffered back-to-back defeats in being beaten by the Chiefs and the ACT Brumbies.

“It was a welcomed break,” Kiss said.

“The boys have come back focussed for the Anzac occasion, playing our game and taking advantage of the opportunities we create.

“It’s great that we are up against the defending champions of Super Rugby Pacific.

“They have constant threats which means being on our game defensively.”

Blues coach Vern Cotter said: “The Reds are a powerful team that are coming off a bye. Switching on early will be key to not giving them a fast start.

“Focusing in on preparing well has been front of mind for the players and getting our processes right for a good performance.

“Playing on Anzac Day adds a lot and this is an important game for us.”

Reds: Sef Fa’agase, Richie Asiata, Zane Nonggorr, Josh Canham, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Seru Uru, Fraser McReight, Joe Brial, Tate McDermott, Tom Lynagh. Tim Ryan, Hunter Paisami, Dre Pakeho, Lachie Anderson, Jock Campbell. Bench: George Blake, Alex Hodgman, Massimo De Lutiis, Angus Blyth, Ryan Smith, John Bryant, Kalani Thomas, Heremaia Murray.