The forgotten man in the Wallabies pack, Luke Jones, has zoomed back into the Rugby World Cup frame by signing with the Queensland Reds through to 2025.
Jones, 31, played six Tests for Australia between 2014-19 but returned to France to take a contract with Racing 92 after the heartbreak of missing the 2019 World Cup.
The 197cm, 111kg lock adds to Wallabies coach Dave Rennie’s selection options for next year’s tournament in France and is also comfortable at blindside flanker.
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He is a like-for-like replacement for Northampton-bound Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, who fell out of favour with Reds coach Brad Thorn in Super Rugby Pacific this year.
“It’s great to be able to repatriate another Wallaby at the Reds,” Queensland general manager of professional rugby Sam Cordingley said.
“Luke is a great addition to our squad. He’s a very experienced lock with a high work rate, ability to lead a lineout and the versatility to play in the backrow.”
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Sydney product Jones played 89 Super Rugby games for the Melbourne Rebels and Western Force between 2010-20, debuting as an 18-year-old prodigy.
The set-piece specialist also enjoyed successful stints at Bordeaux and Racing 92 before home started calling for his young family.
“I’ve chosen to sign with Queensland because I think Ballymore is a great choice for my family and I to settle into,” Jones said.
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“The Reds are a club that has previously had great success and are capable of achieving this again moving forward. It also means my kids will be surrounded by family and able to start school and settle into their long-term schooling life.
“I’m hoping that I can provide a level of experience that can help the younger players become better, whilst also striving to play as well as possible to give the club the best opportunity to be successful. I’ve had the opportunity to play against Brad Thorn a couple of times at the end of his playing career, and I know he’s tough and resilient. I’m looking forward to working with him this season.
“Looking at the current squad, there is quite a few young players with good exposure to the professional level already. The team has a great culture with an instilled desire to win. I’m hoping to add my experience to the pack as we look to challenge for a Super Rugby title.”
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Jones told Rugby Pass in January that he had drawn a line through the 2023 World Cup.
“I think I’m out of the conversation,” Jones said.
“I’m here for another year with Racing. My focus is here. I’m not looking to go back and to try to participate in a World Cup. I did that last time. I fell short but I am glad I gave it my best crack to try and get into the World Cup.”
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