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super-rugby-pacific
Australia Under-20 captain Tom Robinson did not make his debut at Super Rugby Pacific level yet, but the underdog is already tipped for a bright future with Queensland Red after signing a new two-year contract.
Robinson donned Queensland maroon for the first time against him Tonga in Nuku’alofa last year and is now a full member of the team, which is currently one game into a four-game tour Japan and Italy.
The 20-year-old played 40 minutes in the game without appearing against Japan Rugby League One Saitama giants Panasonic Wild Knights last weekend. The two sides will meet again on Saturday in the annual Saitama Queensland Shield.
Robinson was named Australia U20 captain on June 11 as the age group looked ahead to the Rugby World Juniors in Georgia. The captain started at openside, including a try to score in the 90-22 win over Spain.
Coach Vern Cotter included Robinson in the club’s Super Rugby AUS squad, and included University of Queensland talent in the mix for the international tour. As the Reds prepare for the Shield clash, the Queensland Rugby Union announced the new deal on Wednesday.
“I’m really excited to be re-signing with the Reds. It’s all I’ve wanted and I’m very happy to be at Ballymore,” said Robinson.
“This year, being involved with and against some of Australia’s best players on a daily basis at Reds training has been huge for me.
“Again, it’s that step up. You constantly have actions like improving the defensive breakdown to disrupt and slow down the opposition like Fraser (McReight) does so well.”
John Bryant was last week unveiled as Queensland’s captain for the opening match of the tour, with two games to be played in Italy also. Red will face Benetton Rugby and the Italy XV before returning home to Australia in a few weeks.
Australia A Skipper Matt Faessler is in the mix, with a Reds squad boasting a mix of experience and potential. Robinson joined captain Bryant and No. 8 Vaiuta Latu in the loose forwards to play the Wild Knights, and all three made their mark in maroon.
“Tom has a great work ethic and the skills to play more than one position in the back line,” added coach Cotter.
“This tour is an ideal way for him to continue to improve his good habits and build his experience for the role he will play over the next two years.”
