Joe Brial believes staying with the Queensland Reds will give him his best chance of forcing his way into Australia’s squad for next year’s Rugby World Cup.
The son of former Wallaby Michael Brial has signed a new two-year deal that will keep him at the Reds until at least 2028.
“Any goals I have around a home World Cup next year come from what I do at the Reds,” the 24-year-old back-rower said.
“I’m not too caught up in anything but performing for Queensland.
“It’s an exciting time for rugby in Queensland. We have a good group at the Reds with more strength coming through.”
Sydney-born Brial debuted for the Reds in 2024 and has made 27 appearances for Queensland.
“This is my third season around international back-rowers like Harry (Wilson) and Fraser (McReight), and Liam Wright before that, plus the world-class coaching here,” he said.
“Development has come through in my defence, attack … everything.”
Brial’s form led to his selection in an Anzac XV, coached by current Reds mentor Les Kiss, that last year took on the British and Irish Lions.
“Joe is a big lad. It’s not just strength and power but a smart game that he brings,” Kiss said.
“He’s being used more in lineouts, for example. He’s made massive improvements over the past two years and he understands he has to continue to work on his game to get better still.”
Brial started for the Reds in their Super Rugby Pacific round 1 loss to the NSW Waratahs on February 13.
Having had a weekend bye, Queensland resumes its campaign on Friday night at Suncorp Stadium against the Highlanders.
The Reds also last week announced a two-match tour of Italy in November. Queensland will play games against an Italy XV and Benetton Treviso, whom the Reds have a partnership with.
Originally published as Joe Brial commits future to Queensland Reds with new two-year contract