Hunter Paisami signs new deal with Australia and Reds until 2026

Rugby Australia and Queensland Reds have jointly confirmed that Hunter Paisami has signed a new deal until 2026.

Paisami made his professional rugby debut with Melbourne Rising in 2017 and switched to Brisbane City in 2019. He made his Super Rugby debut with Reds in 2020 and recently played his 50th game for the club.

"I'm really stoked to be signing for another two years in Australia and with the Reds," Paisami said.

"I'm really enjoying my time at the Reds with [head coach] Les Kiss and his crew. He's building something special and I want to be a part of it.

"A major goal is to pull on that gold jersey again. That starts here by playing my best footy for the Reds and hopefully the opportunity to play at the next level comes from that.

"Having the British & Irish Lions touring Australia next year comes around once in a player's lifetime, and hopefully I can earn a part in that."

Having represented the Samoa Under 20 side in the past, the 26-year-old made his Australia debut in 2020 and has featured in 24 Tests since then.

Queensland Reds head coach Les Kiss heaped praises on Paisami and is delighted with him remaining with the club for the next two seasons.

"Hunter has been exceptional for us this season with how he has driven standards.

"He's showing more variety in his game. It's always been there. He's found how to apply it to the different style we are playing.

"He's a player who leads by his actions. The form he is in and with his age profile, there are good things ahead for Hunter with the Reds and as the strong option he offers the Wallabies."