The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) has today announced the Queensland Reds have signed skilful flyhalf Tom Lynagh through 2023.
Tom is set to follow in the footsteps of his father Michael at the Reds, joining his new Queensland team-mates mid next year on a two-and-a-half-year deal.
The 17-year-old is currently playing within the Harlequins and England Academy system in the UK where he continues to impress and draw parallels with his father.
Described by the great Queensland and Australian coach Bob Templeton as the “best footballer we have ever produced,” Michael Lynagh represented his country in 72 Tests – 15 as captain, in a 12-year international career that included a World Cup victory in 1991 as the Australian vice-captain. He also played 100 games for Queensland and captained the Reds in three seasons (1988, 1990-91) during his time at Ballymore.
Tom’s signing continues a proud Queensland tradition of father-son pairings to have played for the Reds which includes Sam Scott-Young and also Brendan Nasser whose son’s Angus and Josh are in the current Queensland squad.
Reds General Manager of Professional Rugby Sam Cordingley said: “We are excited to welcome Tom to Queensland next year.
“Like his father, Tom is a very astute five-eighth, but he has certainly created his own path. Tom has genuine x-factor with ball in hand which is supported by his point of difference in speed and acceleration. His kicking game is also impressive both out of hand and at goal,” said Cordingley.
“As a developing talent Tom is held in the highest regard internationally given he qualifies for multiple nations. We are really pleased that he has committed to the Reds and Australian Rugby.”
Reds head coach Brad Thorn said: “It’ll be great to have Tom as part of our program next year.
“He will get a chance to develop alongside players such as James O’Connor. With Tom coming in and Taj Annan from BBC committing through 2023 also, we are in a good place.
“Tom is currently in the English and Harlequins Academies which is a great rugby system. He’ll have the opportunity to continue to develop here at Queensland. We look forward to seeing his progression,” said Thorn.
Reds recruit Tom Lynagh said: “I am very excited about joining the Reds next year.
“I have been watching the team develop over the past few seasons form here in the UK. There are some really exciting young players playing a good style of rugby.
“I am very grateful to the Queensland Reds as it is a wonderful opportunity for me to develop as a rugby player and a person.
“It will be great to meet all the other squad members, coaches and all those involved in the Reds community,” said Lynagh.
A product of proud Rugby school Epsom College situated in Surrey south of London, Lynagh excelled in all sports – playing 1st XV Rugby and 1st XI Soccer for three straight years, while playing four years in the 1st XI Cricket team. His father Michael also represented the same sides for the same amount time during his schooling at St. Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace in Brisbane.
Tom will officially join the Reds in August next year.
