Reds 2025 Season Preview: Big Additions and Bold Ambitions After Quarterfinal Exit
The 2024 season, brimming with potential, ended prematurely with a quarterfinal exit in Les Kiss’s debut year as coach. With a talent-packed roster for 2025, anything short of a semifinal appearance will be considered a letdown.
Les Kiss Strengthens Squad with Notable Signings for 2025
Already rich in international talent last season, Les Kiss has further strengthened the squad with notable additions. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Filipo Daugunu have returned to the north, while Josh Canham has joined from the Rebels to reinforce the tight five. New faces also include Mason Gordon, the younger brother of former Wallaby Carter Gordon, utility back Jude Gibbs from Shute Shield’s Northern Suburbs, and ex-Rebels winger Lachie Anderson.
Big Departures: Vunivalu, Petaia, and O’Connor Move On
The most surprising omission is Suliasi Vunivalu. Since his switch from the NRL in 2021, Vunivalu struggled to maximize his potential at the Reds, with injuries hampering his time in Queensland despite ample opportunities. He now heads to France, joining Will Skelton at Top 14 powerhouse La Rochelle.
Jordan Petaia is another standout absence, with the star back notably missing from the squad list, effectively confirming his release to pursue an NFL career. Meanwhile, James O’Connor has also opted to move on, rejecting a contract extension to sign with the Crusaders.
Backline Depth Ensures Reds Won’t Miss a Beat
The departure of experienced players is significant, but with the depth of talent across the backline, Les Kiss should have no trouble filling the voids.
Reds Forward Pack Poised for Big Things in 2025
In the forward pack, the back row stands out as one of Australia’s strongest, featuring all three Wallabies starters. The lock stocks remain solid, and a fully fit and firing forward unit promises big things for the Reds in 2025.
Predicted starting XV: Jock Campbell, Tim Ryan, Josh Flook, Hunter Paisami, Filipo Daugunu, Tom Lynagh, Tate McDermott, Harry Wilson, Fraser McReight, Liam Wright, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Connor Vest, Zane Nonggorr, Matt Faessler, Sef Fa’agase.
Squad:
Forwards: Josh Nasser, Sef Fa’agase, Liam Wright, Ryan Smith, Richie Asiata, Zane Nonggorr, George Blake, Angus Blyth, Fraser McReight, Connor Vest, Harry Wilson, Seru Uru, Joe Brial, Matt Faessler, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Massimo De Lutiis, Alex Hodgman, Josh Canham, John Bryant, Trevor King, Max Craig, Matt Gibbon, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
Backs: Josh Flook, Hunter Paisami, Mason Gordon, Jock Campbell, Frank Goldsbrough, Tate McDermott, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Louis Werchon, Tom Lynagh, Kalani Thomas, Isaac Henry, Filipo Daugunu, Tim Ryan, Will McCulloch, Dre Pakeho, Jude Gibbs, Lachie Anderson
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