reds vs waratahs is live in Brisbane as the Queensland Reds host the NSW Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium, with coverage from 7: 00 pm ET and kickoff expected at 7: 35 pm ET. The matchup answers a simple question of momentum: the Waratahs beat the Reds 36-12 in Sydney in round one, while the Reds arrive off a last-play win over the ACT Brumbies. Both coaches have adjusted their squads, bringing back experienced names and reshuffling to seize control of this interstate rivalry.
Reds Vs Waratahs: Teams and key returns
The Reds have named a strong starting XV, with Aidan Ross and Josh Nasser among the front row and Seru Uru and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto as the locking pair. In-form Tim Ryan returns on the wing and is listed at starting 11 alongside Carter Gordon at flyhalf and Fraser McReight as captain in the back row. This selection is aimed squarely at reversing the earlier result in the reds vs waratahs fixture and maintaining the Reds’ momentum at Suncorp.
The Waratahs name a reshaped side following a heavy defeat last week, with Jack Debreczeni, Sid Harvey and James Hendren called into the starting line-up and Jamie Adamson replacing Charlie Gamble after a late change. The visitors hope their new-look combination can unsettle the Reds in Brisbane, turning the rematch into a direct test of depth and resilience in the middle third of the season.
Immediate reactions
“Lots of hard work across the whole team got us in position for that result in Canberra and we’ve been back doing the same at training this week, ” said Carter Gordon, flyhalf, Queensland Reds. “We’ve still got things to fix and work on for a big week against the Waratahs. I’m excited, the boys are excited, for this game. ” That sentiment underlines the Reds’ intent heading into the reds vs waratahs derby.
“We know how much our fans enjoy the Reds vs Waratahs rivalry and it will be great to see a big turnout, ” said Les Kiss, Reds Head Coach, Queensland Reds, stressing the importance of home support in tight interstate contests. Fraser McReight, captain, Queensland Reds, framed the match in traditional terms: “It’s Queensland versus NSW Wales, it doesn’t get much better than that. ”
On the visitors’ side, Matt Philip, captain, NSW Waratahs, kept the focus narrow: “I’m not going to think about the past results against the Hurricanes or the Reds. I’m not going to take anything from round one. ” His words signal a reset ahead of the reds vs waratahs meeting in Brisbane.
Quick context and what’s next
The Reds seek to build on a narrow win in Canberra while the Waratahs aim to respond after back-to-back negative results. Replacement hooker Richie Asiata will mark his 50th Queensland cap in this fixture, and the Reds’ squad changes are otherwise minimal from their previous victory. The Queensland Rugby Union has publicly urged fans to boost attendance, targeting a crowd above the earlier meeting figures.
What happens next is clear: a fierce derby at Suncorp, tactical adjustments from both benches and a hunt for momentum as the season unfolds. Expect an intense opening 20 minutes as both sides test one another, with the immediate impact of the selected personnel likely to determine whether the reds vs waratahs contest becomes a home celebration or a costly loss for the hosts.
