Reds’ pair can step up against Brumbies

ROOKIE Liam Wright and Kane Douglas have been earmarked to replace the Queensland Reds’ reckless tackle duo for Friday night’s clash against the ACT Brumbies at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

Reds skipper Scott Higginbotham and Lukhan Tui were both uncertain of their status for the game when a SANZAAR Foul Play Committee met yesterday to discuss their offences.

No. 8 Higginbotham was sent off against the Melbourne Rebels last Friday night when a no-arms tackle was judged as dangerous and making contact with the head of Melbourne Rebels lock Matt Philip.

Lock Tui was cited when a dumping tackle on Will Genia was judged at red card level after he copped a sin-binning during his team’s 45-19 loss.

The Reds trained yesterday at Ballymore with all forwards on deck.

Douglas is vastly experienced and started for the Wallabies in the 2015 World Cup final so could easily step up.

Wright is just 20 and made his debut in the closing 20 minutes against the Rebels.

The Durban-born youngster nearly scored a try in that period and his football-sense is one of the assets that appeals to coach Brad Thorn.

Wright has height and skill and his leadership has contributed to the Reds squad in offseason training already.

At some point the Reds will have to take stock to realise how poor their discipline is.

The Reds gave away the most foul play penalties (32) last season and conceded the most yellow cards (13) in Super Rugby and this season has started in the same vein.