‘“We’re Rebuilding as a Nation”: Dedicated Wallabies Star Rejects Lucrative $1.3 Million Annual Contract’

Rugby Australia has secured one of its most vital contracts of the year, extending Fraser McReight’s commitment through to the end of 2028.

Reports indicate that McReight turned down a lucrative offer from Japan, estimated at $1.3 million per season, in favour of remaining with the Wallabies and Queensland Reds.

The 26-year-old is regarded as a top-tier openside flanker and is frequently mentioned alongside Rob Valetini as one of Australia’s most crucial players as the nation looks ahead to the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour and the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home turf.

“I’m thrilled to have my contract sorted for the next three years, allowing me to focus on the bright future with the Reds, the Wallabies, and my teammates,” McReight stated.

“There were other options, but my heart has always belonged to the Reds and the Wallabies. Queensland is my home, and representing my family and friends means everything. Playing for your country is the ultimate honour; it allows you to proudly represent where you come from.”

“We have some monumental events on the horizon for rugby in this nation, and as we rebuild, I want to contribute to that effort.”

With all the noise surrounding Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’s contract, Rugby Australia has wisely concentrated on securing the nation’s top forward talent.

McReight’s re-signing follows similar contracts for Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Harry Wilson, and Jeremy Williams this year.

However, Taniela Tupou still poses a potential risk for RA.

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“Fraser embodies Australia’s tradition of producing exceptional openside flankers, and we are delighted to keep him with the Wallabies and Reds for another three years until 2028,” stated Rugby Australia’s Director of High Performance, Peter Horne.

“He has become a key member of the Wallabies squad, and we anticipate he will play a significant role as we gear up for an incredible series of major events at home, beginning with this year’s British and Irish Lions tour.”

“Much like his Reds teammate Harry Wilson, Fraser is entering his prime as an international player, and his pledge to Australian rugby extends beyond the Rugby World Cup on home soil in 2027.”

Making his Test debut in 2020, McReight has earned 25 caps to date.

He continues the proud legacy of exceptional Wallabies No.7s, following in the footsteps of George Smith, Phil Waugh, David Pocock, and Michael Hooper.

“Fraser is not just one of the top openside flankers in the world; he also has a tremendously positive presence in the locker room and has embraced leadership roles,” Reds coach Les Kiss commented.

“The re-signing of Harry Wilson, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Matt Faessler, and now Fraser bodes well for the Reds’ future and the overall strength of the Wallabies.”