Wallabies lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto signs long-term deal

The Wallabies have secured a crucial piece of their forward pack, with second-rower Lukhan Salakaia-Loto signing a contract extension until the end of 2028.

The deal ensures that the experienced lock remains a key figure in Queensland Reds’ squad and Australia’s plans for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Currently sidelined due to a leg injury, Salakaia-Loto will remain at Ballymore for at least the next three seasons, providing much-needed stability at lock for the next Wallabies head coach.

His signing follows the extension of Reds teammate and Wallabies captain Harry Wilson, as Rugby Australia looks to build a strong foundation for the future.

Salakaia-Loto rejoined Australian rugby in late 2023 and initially signed with the Melbourne Rebels for the 2024 season. However, following the financial collapse of the Rebels, he opted to return to Queensland, where he had previously played before moving to Northampton Saints in England.

Despite being injured during pre-season, he has settled well under Reds head coach Les Kiss, showing strong leadership within the squad. Reflecting on his commitment to the Reds and Wallabies, Salakaia-Loto stated:

"I feel like I'm only just getting started in the second chapter of my career and that my best rugby is ahead of me. Hopefully, I can put my best foot forward in a Reds jersey, and a Wallabies jersey is something that I can continue to earn."

At 28 years old, Salakaia-Loto brings valuable experience and versatility, being able to cover both lock and blindside flanker.

Since making his Test debut against South Africa in 2017, he has been a consistent figure in Australian rugby, including featuring in the 2019 World Cup squad under Michael Cheika.

Although he was left out of Eddie Jones’ 2023 World Cup squad, he remains a strong candidate for Australia’s British & Irish Lions series in July and the Rugby Championship.

Alongside Nick Frost and Jeremy Williams, he is expected to be a key component of Joe Schmidt’s plans moving forward.

RA’s Director of High Performance, Peter Horne, emphasized the importance of securing Salakaia-Loto’s services long-term:

"Lukhan is an experienced Test player whose re-signing shows his long-term commitment to the Queensland Reds and Australian rugby.

"We're looking forward to continuing to see him work hard and perform well for the Reds during the Super Rugby Pacific season."

Meanwhile, Les Kiss highlighted the impact Salakaia-Loto has already had since returning to the Reds setup:

"He joined the Reds on the pre-season tour of the United Kingdom, where the benefits of his experience were felt within our squad. We look forward to all he can contribute to the Reds on the field and in the locker room."