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The Queensland Reds might not yet have a coach for 2024, but Hunter Paisami will stay put for another year in a major boost for the franchise.
There were great fears that Paisami would be the latest to head to the Melbourne Rebels, but the Wallabies midfielder has opted to stay put for another year.
His decision to re-sign for just one year is likely down to a couple of reasons.
Paisami wants to experience what the Reds will look and feel like next year once Brad Thorn departs the franchise, but he’s also interested to see where he stands under new Wallabies coach Eddie Jones.
Indeed, it’s a question many are asking with Jones not having to name his first official squad until The Rugby Championship starts in early July.
Hunter Paisami is set to re-sign with the Reds on a new one-year deal. Photo: Joe Allison/Getty Images
Paisami featured prominently under Dave Rennie, where he played 24 Tests.
But the broadening scope of Rugby Australia’s eligibility selection policy to allow Samu Kerevi to feature, the rise of Len Ikitau and development of Lalakai Foketi means Paisami is no shoe-in under Jones.
Nonetheless, his ability to play both positions in the midfield is something that will help his chances snare one of the prized 33 plane tickets to Paris. His decision to stay put will also bolster his chances.
After all, Jones has repeatedly said he’s only interested in those that want to play – or coach – for the Wallabies. Everything else he’s not interested in. Well, in 2023 at least.
Paisami had interest in England.
Hunter Paisami drew interest from England and the Rebels but has chosen to stay at the Reds. Photo: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images
It’s easy to see why. Only 18 months ago he was one of a few that stood up against Eddie’s England at Twickenham.
The Rebels, too, wanted to lure Paisami down to the Stockade.
After missing out on Kerevi, Paisami – a local, who got into strife off-field and was considered too small – has some of the same qualities as the Japan-based Wallaby.
Paisami hasn’t played since coming off after 17 minutes against the Rebels in late March.
At that point the Reds led 14-0 after 17 minutes. The Reds went down 40-34.
It’s hoped he will return in time for the finals from an MCL injury.
The Reds’ hopes of sneaking up as high as possible on the Super Rugby standings could well come down to Saturday’s derby against the NSW Waratahs.
The clash shapes as another vital one for selection under Eddie Jones too, with Langi Gleeson set to go head-to-head with Harry Wilson, Jake Gordon against Tate McDermott and Michael Hooper and Fraser McReight.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.