McLaughlin-Phillips up to for Reds starting challenge

February 15, 2024
1026
Ultimate Rugby

Harry McLaughlin-Phillips was just a seven-year-old spectator when Will Genia, Digby Ioane and Quade Cooper inspired the Reds’ 18-13 Super Rugby title win at Suncorp Stadium.

Now at 19, the talented playmaker says he’s ready to don Queensland’s #10 jersey if called upon for a Round 1 start at the same ground.

McLaughlin-Phillips is locked in a four-way flyhalf battle with James O’Connor, Lawson Creighton and Tom Lynagh, however O’Connor’s hamstring issues and the teenager’s trial form could see ‘HMP’ run the cutter against the Waratahs next weekend.

“There’s four of us gunning for the same position so everyone’s put their best foot forward this pre-season so now it’s up to the coaches to make a decision,” McLaughlin-Phillips told media on Thursday.

“I think I’m personally ready and I think Tom’s ready – he played well in his comeback from his injury – and Lawson’s obviously shown that he can do very well in that position.

“So yeah, I think I’m ready and the other three are all gunning as well.”

A starring role in last week’s 32-7 win over NSW got tongues wagging but Brisbane rugby circles won’t be surprised by McLaughlin-Phillips’ rise.

He scored twice as a winger in a February 2023 Reds trial before lighting up last year’s Hospital Cup across nine games for Souths and earning seven Junior Wallabies caps

There, McLaughlin-Phillips showed his versatility in gold by finishing Australia’s U20 World Championship campaign at fullback, eventually earning a Queensland cap against Saitama Wild Knights in November under new coach Les Kiss.

“I probably didn’t really set any expectations for myself,” McLaughlin Phillips said.

“There’s obviously a lot of competition here so I’ve just come in with an open mind trying to learn and better myself.”

“(James O’Connor) is a great role model and someone to look to for advice, he’s been very helpful throughout last year and this pre-season (and) Tate’s a great player and a great mind.

“He sees the game very cleverly, he sees opportunities in our game model so being able to work alongside him has been very beneficial.”