Queensland Reds co-captain Liam Wright has re-signed with Queensland Rugby through 2024.
After debuting in 2018, Wright has earnt 58 caps for his state including 27 as captain.
In an innovative two-year deal, the contract will see the backrower available to play overseas during the Super Rugby Pacific off-season should he not be selected for the Wallabies.
Wright said: “I am very proud to be re-signing with the Reds for the next two seasons.
“The thrill and honour of wearing the Queensland jersey drives me immensely, and injuries over the past two seasons have only made that desire grow.
“I am looking forward to continuing the journey we as players, staff and Queenslanders have undertaken to improve this great club.
“I would like to thank our supporters, Brad, Sam and all the Reds for their support. I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Red General Manager of Professional Rugby Sam Cordingley said: "Liam's an important part of the Queensland Reds, his instinct has always been to put the club first.
"Whilst his focus is very much on Queensland and national selection, Liam has earned the flexibility to explore playing opportunities abroad within this contract term.
"It's great news for the Reds to have Liam committed to our 2023 and 2024 seasons."
Born in South Africa, Wright attended Brisbane’s Anglican Church Grammar School and was a key part of Brad Thorn’s title-winning Queensland U20s sides in 2016 and 2017.
The backrower made his Super Rugby debut in the opening round of the 2018 season alongside now fellow co-captain Tate McDermott, and went on to finish runner-up in the Pilecki Medal count in just his second season for the Reds in 2019.
Wright was handed the captaincy in 2020 and led Queensland to the Super Rugby AU final the same year.
A torrid injury run over the last two seasons has reduced Wright’s time on-field, however the Easts product notched his 50th cap in 2021 after leading the Reds to the Super Rugby AU title alongside James O’Connor.
The 24-year-old debuted for the Wallabies in 2019 and has earnt five caps for Australia.
He joins the likes of Jordan Petaia, Jock Campbell, Josh Flook, Luke Jones and Ryan Smith in committing to Queensland Rugby through 2024.
