The NSW Waratahs are gearing up for one of the most anticipated clashes of the Super Rugby Pacific season, taking on the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Saturday night.
With history, pride, and crucial competition points on the line, NSW Waratahs Head Coach Dan McKellar and inside centre Joey Walton have emphasised the significance of the encounter as they look to face their traditional rivals.
McKellar, a Queenslander himself, acknowledged the Queensland Reds as one of the competition's benchmark teams.
But he also highlighted that their recent loss to the Crusaders in Christchurch last Sunday showed vulnerabilities that the NSW Waratahs aim to exploit.
“For periods, they’ve looked like the best team in the competition, and when they get their game going, they’re very dangerous,” McKellar said.
“But no team is unbeatable, and last weekend showed that if you apply pressure for long periods, opportunities will come.”
Despite his deep roots in Queensland, McKellar is fully invested in the NSW Waratahs' cause and embracing the historic rivalry between the two states.
“It’s a privilege to be involved in this game,” McKellar said.
“The first one was played back in 1882, so there’s a huge amount of history there.
“I’ve got a lot of respect for Queensland, but there’s only one thing on my mind this weekend, and that’s making sure we leave Brisbane with a win.”
The NSW Waratahs will need to overcome a mounting injury toll, with captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon sidelined with a medial ligament injury.
In his place, experienced lock Hugh Sinclair will lead the team, a responsibility McKellar believes he will handle with confidence.
“Hugh’s a natural leader. He’s respected by the group and will bring a calm, composed presence on the field,” McKellar said.
“He’ll make sure we stick to our game plan and bring the fight to the Reds.”
Among key selection decisions, Teddy Wilson was picked over Jack Grant as No. 9 to replace Gordon for his Super Rugby Pacific starting debut for the NSW Waratahs.
McKellar praised Wilson’s defensive work rate and growing tactical awareness.
“You’ve got to defend well against Queensland, and Teddy does that at a high level,” McKellar said.
“He’s also developing his ability to control the game with his passing and kicking, and this is a great opportunity for him to step up.
“He played the last half-hour against Fiji [in Round 3] and got through a mountain of defensive work, so we’re confident in his ability.”
Also making his starting debut is No. 8 Leafi Talataina, a powerful ball carrier who has impressed in his opportunities off the bench this season.
McKellar spoke highly of the young forward whose selection means that Langi Gleeson will play off the bench.
“Leafi has earned his spot in the starting XV,” McKellar said.
“He’s been really impressive with his impact off the bench, and now he gets a chance to show what he can do from the opening whistle.
“He’s got a great mix of power and mobility, and he’ll be a key figure for us in the battle up front.”
The third of three changes to the starting XV of last week is the selection of Triston Reilly on the right wing for Darby Lancaster who was not available for selection due to a minor leg injury.
McKellar also noted the importance of physicality against the Queensland Reds. Hence, his selection of a six-two split in favour of forwards on the bench.
“It’s going to be a physical game. The Reds have a strong pack, and we need to match that,” McKellar said.
“We’ve seen good impact off our bench so far this season, and we’ll need that again.”
Joey Walton acknowledged the significance of facing the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium where the NSW Waratahs have struggled in recent years.
“I haven’t won up there yet, so I’m definitley hungry for it,” Walton said.
“We know how important this game is, not just in the context of the season but because of the rivalry. Everyone’s buzzing for it.”
The NSW Waratahs have shown resilience throughout the early rounds, grinding out tough wins even when not at their best.
Walton believes the ability to win in difficult circumstances reflects the team’s growth.
“Last year, we might not have closed out some of those tight games,” Walton said.
“But we’ve been able to do that this season, and that’s a good sign. “We’re building, and we just need to keep improving week by week.”
When: at 7.35 pm (AEDT) Saturday 15 March 2025
Where: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
The game will be televised LIVE on 9Gem and Stan Sport - The Home of Rugby
