As his final signing for the first Super Rugby season settled in Brisbane, Queensland coach Ewen McKenzie revealed how the Reds would kick-start 2011.
McKenzie announced on Tuesday that the Reds would begin their countdown to the historic 15-strong competition by clashing with the Crusaders in a pre-season trial in Cairns on January 29.
And that match may feature new arrival, Kiwi Michael Harris.
The Reds’ final signing for the 2011 season has begun training with the Reds in Brisbane.
He joined the squad to start his two-year deal after completing his commitments for North Harbour in the New Zealand National Provincial Rugby Competition.
McKenzie said Harris – who represented the New Zealand under 20 side at the same time as Reds star Quade Cooper – would give his side an extra dimension in 2011.
Meanwhile, McKenzie was excited by the prospect of travelling to far north Queensland in January.
“We want to make sure that Cairns gets to see a top-class game and we hope to be able to deliver that in spades,” he said.
McKenzie flew to Cairns on Tuesday to make the announcement in partnership with the Cairns and District Rugby Union.
He said the team were excited by the prospect of playing in far north Queensland.
“Cairns and District Rugby supporters are among the most enthusiastic in the country and this game is formal recognition of that,” he said.
“It’s a great opportunity for us and a great opportunity for Cairns to show the broader community just how far rugby has come along in the regions.”
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His side managed to score a try while he was off the field in the 43-10 win.
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