Joe Brial is an emerging force in Australian rugby, a powerful and athletic loose forward whose journey to the professional ranks has been shaped by strong pedigree, international experience and rapid development with the Queensland Reds.
Born on January 7, 2002, in Sydney, Brial was educated at Scots College and began his rugby journey with Eastern Suburbs Rugby Club. He first gained national recognition in 2019 when he represented the Australian Schools & Under-18s team, highlighting his potential at an early age. In 2022, he expanded his rugby education across the Tasman, representing New Zealand Under-20s while also developing through the Crusaders Academy and playing with Canterbury in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship.
Brial’s professional breakthrough came in 2024 when he made his Queensland debut against the Highlanders in Brisbane. That same year, his form and physical presence earned him selection for Australia A, recognition he repeated again in 2025 as his game continued to grow.
Across the 2025 season, Brial delivered several standout performances in Super Rugby Pacific, including a commanding 80-minute display against the Chiefs in Hamilton. He also gained invaluable experience in international fixtures for the Reds against Bristol Bears, Tonga national rugby union team and the British & Irish Lions, broadening his exposure to different styles and conditions.
In the opening round of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, Brial produced a match-turning performance against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney, delicately dabbing a kick ahead to help set up the Reds’ first try before crossing for one himself. By this stage, he had accumulated 27 caps and five tries for Queensland, establishing himself as a key member of the squad.
Standing 195cm and weighing 115kg, Brial blends size and power with smart decision-making and versatility. His consistent improvement has been shaped by the leadership around him at the Reds, including players such as Fraser McReight, Tate McDermott and Harry Wilson, as well as the guidance of Head Coach Les Kiss.
The son of former Wallabies forward Michael Brial, Brial carries strong rugby lineage but is forging his own path. His re-signing with the Queensland Rugby Union through 2028 signals both his belief in the program and the Reds’ confidence that he will remain a cornerstone of Queensland rugby for years to come.
Career
 |
Queensland Reds No. 8 |
2023 - present |
 |
Australia A Blindside Flanker |
2024 - present |
 |
ANZAC Invitational XV Blindside Flanker |
2025 - present |
 |
Canterbury Blindside Flanker |
2022 - 2024 |
