McReight signing just the shot for Reds ahead of derby

Regarded as one of the world's best No.7s, the 26-year-old Wallabies star confirmed a long-term contract extension on Friday.

It's a boost for the code in the country, and the Reds ahead of Saturday's blockbuster against the undefeated Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium.

McReight, two-time defending Australian Super Rugby player of the year, was sensational for club and country in 2024 and said he seriously considered accepting a huge overseas offer.

But, with the 2027 World Cup in Australia on the horizon, he's joined good mate and Wallabies captain Harry Wilson in committing to the domestic competition.

Reds hooker Matt Faessler and Brumbies lock Nick Frost both confirmed their contract extensions on Thursday as Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt steadily builds a list that will remain once he leaves his post after this year's Rugby Championship.

"I'm very happy to have my contract resolved for the next three years and I can concentrate on those good times ahead with the Reds, the Wallabies and my teammates," McReight said."There were other offers but my heart has always been with the Reds and the Wallabies.

"Queensland is my home and it means so much to represent my family and friends and playing for your country is the highest honour where you get to represent where you come from with pride."There are some huge events ahead in rugby in this country, and as a nation we are rebuilding and I want to be part of that."

The Reds (2-1) have top-four aspirations this season and consider the Waratahs (3-0) clash a must-win fixture if that is to eventuate.

McReight says the Reds have mentally prepared for Origin-style encounter with their second-placed arch rivals.

"As game day and kick-off approaches, that's probably when you start to feel it's a bit different," he said.

"The crowds are a bit more packed because they want to see that Origin sort of style come out and that's definitely where you can feel it as a player.

"Playing the Tahs is such a great game with tradition and history against the two states.

"We've had a lot of good battles over the years and the Tahs are a great side who are undefeated and they're showing some awesome things."

Knowing his side will have their hands full containing the Reds' back row of McReight, Wilson and Seru Uru, Waratahs Dan McKellar coach has opted for the big-bodied Leafi Talataina at No.8 ahead of the in-form Langi Gleeson.

"I'm really excited about what Leafi, where we can take him as a rugby player," McKellar said.

"And Langi''s 100 per cent fit, so it's not like we're starting him here because Langi's 80 per cent or anything like that.

"We're starting him because I think he's the best man for the job this week and Langi will give us a real punch and impact off the bench."