The Queensland Reds have continued to add to their ranks, with Wallabies utility back Filipo Daugunu returning to Ballymore.
As first forecast by The Roar, the explosive outside back has returned from the Rebels to the Reds on a one-year deal. It comes after RA decided against handing back the Rebels’ Super Rugby licence in late May.
Despite only leaving Ballymore at the end of 2023, Les Kiss’ program were happy to welcome back the 81-capped utility attacking ace after an exceptional season in Melbourne.
The 29-year-old was a regular for the Rebels in 2024, where he featured prominently at outside centre and on the wing across 12 matches.
Such was his form that he not only captured the attention of Joe Schmidt, earning a place in the New Zealander’s maiden 38-man Wallabies squad, but he also received a national top-up.
Filipo Daugunu was one of the Rebels’ best in 2024. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
It’s not just the fact Daugunu can find a way to the tryline, but the Fijian is one of the best in Australian rugby in getting on the ball and disrupting the ruck. It’s one of the reasons why Schmidt could well pick him in his first matchday squad to take on Wales on July 6 in Sydney.
“It’s great to have Filipo re-commit to Australian rugby,” Rugby Australia director of high performance Peter Horne said.
“He’s a versatile player with an impressive skillset who will continue to add plenty of value to both the Wallabies and the Reds.”
After first bursting on the scene in the National Rugby Championship for Queensland Country, Daugunu said he was thrilled to return to the Sunshine State and where his career took off.
“Queensland is home for me. It’s where it all started,” Daugunu said in a statement.
Filipo Daugunu will return to the Reds in 2025. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)
“For me to come back, I’m honoured to be here. There will be a lot of familiar faces. I’m happy.
“For me, it was a good change to go to Melbourne. I played a lot at outside centre and enjoyed the defensive role where you read the play by connecting with your inside centre and the winger on the outside.
“I’ve spent most of my career playing on the wing. I’m happy to play the position where I’m needed.
“The news has been tough for the Rebels but you have to move on.”
Kiss, whose Reds made some progress in 2024 despite another quarter-final finish, said he was pleased to welcome Daugunu and add to the depth of his backline.
“It’s fantastic that Filipo has returned to Queensland. He’s much respected and we’re really pleased he has chosen to come home,” Kiss said.
“He gives us great cover in the midfield and outside backs.”
Daugunu has seven caps for the Wallabies.
He is the second former Rebels player in quick succession to join the Reds, with Josh Canham unveiled on Thursday.
The Roarhttps://https://ift.tt/0MpdQ6L add another Wallaby to growing roster as ex-Rebels star returns to Ballymore
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