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The turnover figures that has a Reds rookie putting Michael Hooper under pressure for Wallabies selection

(Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Australian rugby’s new breakdown “pest” Fraser McReight says he is still learning to pick his moments and that thoughts of a Wallabies call-up remain a fantasy.

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But the Queensland Reds back rower has the numbers on the board to mount a case for international recognition as he prepares for his side’s Super Rugby AU preliminary final against the Melbourne Rebels on Saturday.

The 21-year-old leads the abbreviated tournament in turnovers won with 17, six more than next-best teammate Liam Wright and more than double renowned Australia and NSW Waratahs breakdown menace Michael Hooper (eight).

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Josh Ioane on missing out on the All Blacks and that kick for Will Jordan

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Josh Ioane on missing out on the All Blacks and that kick for Will Jordan

McReight captained the Australia under-20s to silver at last year’s World Championship and has relished a promotion to the Reds’ starting side this year, rather than having to create an impact off the bench.

McReight’s arrival could be viewed as timely for new Wallabies coach Dave Rennie, following the retirement of Australia’s long-term pilfering genius David Pocock.

Two tests are expected against New Zealand next month with the possibility of the Rugby Championship to follow in November.

“I’ve had conversations with Dave and the staff there, but haven’t spoken for a few weeks,” McReight said of his international prospects.

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“I didn’t think I was even going to be in the conversation, so it’s a bit of fantasy, not my reality.

“If that does pop up later down the track it’d be great, but in the current climate you don’t know what’s going to happen, so my expectations are pretty low.”

McReight gave away a last-gasp penalty trying to steal possession that allowed the Brumbies to kick a winning penalty last month, but has not gone gun shy as a result.

“(Coach Brad Thorn) sort of gives you a bit of confidence in his own rugged terms, a license to be energetic, be a pest,” he said.

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“My big growth was picking and choosing my battles against quality opposition, who can clean you out really easily.

“I’ve been pinged multiple times but it’s a learning curve … and it’s my job to go hunting for the ball.”

He said earning another shot at the ladder-leading Brumbies, and following in the footsteps of the Reds’ 2011 title-winning side, was the main focus.

“That whole squad was awesome, (Will) Genia, Quade (Cooper) all those boys were young, a bit like us,” McReight, who rates former Wallaby Radike Samo among his idols, said.

“We want to go out there and prove … we’re not here to be trifled with.”

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R
RedWarrior 59 minutes ago
Records show All Blacks' greatest rugby adversary is now Ireland

Foster was literally whinging about the TMO in the Ireland series in the presser AFTER the RWC final. NZs whinging about the final itself was apparently picked up by Voyager 2 which was near the asteroid belt. What about the whingefest and crybabies after O'Mahony's legendary sledge (during the match) on Sam Cane?


I often hear talk about NZ players being poisoned or similar nonsense during the 1995 final. NZ boast that they are 'superstars' and 'humble heroes' on their own website. You gave England the same treatment in 2002-2003, calling them arrogant just because they beat you. They told the rest of us then what you were like, we should have listened. I would give as much credence to a NZ supporter disliking us, as I would to Krusty the clown saying the same thing. Let's just say your judgement may not be the best.


Regarding 2016, as the referee had basically let NZ away with cheating their way to victory via filthy dangerous play and fouling he was hardly going to pull Sexton up when clearly trying to stop a grounding. NZ always leave the boot or arm in to hurt a try scorer but that seems to be invisible to you entitles lot.


BTW NZ have literally being whinging and crying about Ireland since Soldier field. You are just very bad losers. We will be delighted to be shot of you on Friday. I hope we do so with a win, so that you rethink your philosophy of mocking opponents and spectators you've just beaten.


After the match last Saturday the internet was full of Kiwi supporters basically abusing English folk. Where is your national honour? Where is your national integrity?

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