Lukhan Salakaia-Loto Rejoins Queensland Reds for 2025 Season

Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, a 27-year-old forward with 32 Wallabies caps, has rejoined the Queensland Reds for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season following the collapse of the Melbourne Rebels. Previously, he played for the Reds and Northampton Saints. His return is seen as a significant boost for the team.

Lukhan Salakaia-Loto has rejoined the Queensland Reds for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, Queensland Rugby Union announced on Saturday. The 27-year-old forward, who boasts 32 Wallabies caps, previously played 69 times for the Reds before his move to Northampton Saints for the 2022-23 season.

Salakaia-Loto returned to Australia in 2024 with the Melbourne Rebels, who were eventually cut from Super Rugby due to financial issues. Rugby Australia rejected a rescue plan for the Rebels, leading to Salakaia-Loto's return to the Reds. 'To be back in Brisbane and at Ballymore is unreal,' he stated, expressing excitement about rejoining his former team.

Reds coach Les Kiss welcomed Salakaia-Loto's return, highlighting the valuable experience he gained while playing abroad and with the Wallabies. 'We look forward to what is ahead,' Kiss added, anticipating the forward's impact on the team.

(With inputs from agencies.)