Speight makes Reds switch
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The Queensland Rugby Union have confirmed Brumbies winger Henry Speight has signed with the Queensland Reds through 2021.
Speight has been a hugely influential member of the Brumbies since making his debut in 2011 against the Chiefs in Canberra, crossing for his first try in Brumbies colours a week later, against the Rebels in Melbourne.
Since then Speight, who has also claimed nineteen caps for Australia and scored four tries, has moved onto 45 tries for the club in 119 appearances in becoming one of the finest wings of his generation and becoming a fans-favourite in the process.
The Fijian finisher will call Ballymore home for the next two years after deciding to remain in Australian Rugby.
“Whilst focused on the Brumbies for this season, I am delighted to be joining the Reds and I can’t wait to meet both the team and the fans,” said Speight.
“It’s an exciting time in my life with Louise and I expecting our first child and the opportunity to be around family is something we look forward to.
“I believe Australian Rugby has a great future and I couldn’t be happier to stay here and pursue my goals in Australian Rugby with the Reds.”
NEWS | The Queensland Rugby Union is pleased to confirm Brumbies winger Henry Speight has signed with the https://t.co/4mSQR9Bfhc Queensland Reds through 2021.
— Queensland Reds (@Reds_Rugby) May 30, 2019
Read more here: https://t.co/pgbXkcomCl#Believe2019 #RedsFamily pic.twitter.com/9kqHdegpZS
Reds head coach Brad Thorn said: “We’re pleased to have Henry here at Queensland. He is a good footballer and a great guy.
“He has performed a great service at the Brumbies. He was well respected and liked down there. He will add a lot to this group on, and equally off the field,” said Thorn.
After playing four seasons with Waikato in New Zealand’s ITM Cup, Speight made his Super Rugby debut in 2011 with the Brumbies and went on to become the first Fijian-born player to reach 100 Super Rugby caps.
He was the Australian Conference’s leading try-scorer in 2012 and 2013 and currently boasts 225 points (45 tries) from 119 matches during his time in Canberra.
The 31-year-old made his Australian debut against Ireland during the 2014 Spring Tour and played in the Rugby World Cup the following year.