Reds coach Brad Thorn doesn’t blame lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto for wanting to leave Queensland at the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season to continue his club career in England.
Queensland’s preparations for Friday night’s clash against the Waratahs at Leichhardt Oval were rocked this week by news Salakaia-Loto would reportedly be leaving the Reds later this year to join English club Northampton Saints on a $1.8 million three-year deal.
It’s a lucrative contract Salakaia-Loto found hard to refuse following his axing from the Wallabies squad last year and the likelihood of a reduced Rugby Australia contract.
“It’s an opportunity for him and his family, and we wish him well when he goes,” Thorn said.
“He’s been here for seven seasons and by the end of this season he should be up to 80 (Queensland) caps.
“He’s a wonderful guy. He’s a big part of our team and he’s got a big heart.
“We’d like him to stay … but that’s in RA’s hands. It’s out of my hands.”
Thorn also denied there was unrest in the Reds camp after News Corp Australia’s column reported some players were unhappy with the training load imposed by their coach.
“Is that the Broncos?” Thorn said, believing there had been confusion following reports players had been worked too hard in the pre-season by the NRL club.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Thorn preferred to focus on the Reds’ task of beating the Waratahs, who outmuscled Queensland 21-14 less than two weeks ago in a trial in Roma.
“The game was spread out, (there was a) change of personnel at halftime, but the Waratahs brought really good physicality and intensity from the kick off,” Thorn said.
“We acknowledged that at the time, we acknowledge that now, and we’ll be looking to come out hard against them and start a lot better this time.
“It’s a tough game in front of us. We’re looking forward to getting down there and competing.
“We’re keen for the contest.”
The Waratahs’ squad includes former Reds prop Ruan Smith, who has been named on the NSW bench.
“Ruan’s a top man. Him and (his twin brother) JP, we’ve got a real good connexjmtzywction with those lads,” Thorn said.
“He’s got an opportunity there and he’ll be giving it his best effort.”
