Wallabies pair make a return to Reds side

THE Queensland Reds have regained the services of Wallabies pair James O’connor and Hunter Paisami but have lost in-form forwards trio Fraser Mcreight, Harry Wilson and Richie Asiata for Saturday’s daunting assignment against the Blues at Eden Park.

Flyhalf O’connor will make a welcome return from a knee injury that has sidelined him since the Reds’ 36-32 win over the Melbourne Rebels on April 15.

The Queenslanders have lost the three games O’connor has missed – all against New Zealand opposition – to slide down to sixth spot on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder.

His class, composure and kicking game will be crucial if the Reds are to snap their losing streak against the firstplaced Blues.

“To have James back steering the ship … it’s massive for the belief of the side,” Reds captain Tate Mcdermott said.

“Just to have someone else to lean on and speak to the boys, particularly in those tough moments, is going to be really crucial not only for these next three weeks (of the regular season) but in the playoffs as well.”

Centre Paisami’s return from a shoulder injury will add power and punch to Queensland’s backline.

“It’s just another experienced player who has played quite a bit for the Wallabies, and he knows the insides and outs of this team as well,” Mcdermott said.

“To have Hunter in there as a direct ball runner but also a distributor, and his defence as well … it’s good to have him back.”

However, the Reds’ joy about the return of Paisami and O’connor has been tempered by the loss of No.8 Wilson (concussion), flanker Mcreight (flu) and hooker Asiata (flu).

“The guys that get picked will do the job,” Mcdermott said.