Test lock returns from Europe to sign for the Queensland Reds

The Queensland Reds have added Test experience to their pack, signing former Wallaby lock Luke Jones through 2025.

The 31-year-old brings a decade of Super Rugby experience to Ballymore, with the secondrower playing 89 games for the Western Force and Melbourne Rebels from 2010 to 2020.

Jones debuted for Australia in 2014 and has played six games for his country, while he has also featured for French clubs Bordeaux and Racing 92 in the Top 14.

Jones said: “I’ve chosen to sign with Queensland because I think Ballymore is a great choice for my family and I to settle into. The Reds are a club that has previously had great success and are capable of achieving this again moving forward.

“It also means my kids will be surrounded by family and able to start school and settle into their long-term schooling life.

“I’m hoping that I can provide a level of experience that can help the younger players become better, whilst also striving to play as well as possible to give the club the best opportunity to be successful

“I’ve had the opportunity to play against Brad Thorn a couple of times at the end of his playing career, and I know he’s tough and resilient. I’m looking forward to working with him this season.

“Looking at the current squad, there is quite a few young players with good exposure to the professional level already. The team has a great culture with an instilled desire to win. I’m hoping to add my experience to the pack as we look to challenge for a Super Rugby title.”

Reds General Manager – Professional Rugby Sam Cordingley said: “It’s great to be able to repatriate another Wallaby at the Reds.

“Luke is a great addition to our squad. He’s a very experienced lock with a high work rate, ability to lead a lineout and the versatility to play in the backrow.

“We look forward to welcoming Luke and his family to the Reds.”

An Australian Schoolboy in 2008 and 2009, Jones debuted for the Force in 2010 as an 18-year-old, before moving across to the country to the Rebels the following season.

The Sydney product went on to play 72 games for the Melbourne side over the next six seasons, earning a Wallabies debut in 2014.

Jones played three matches in his debut Test season before a move to French Top 14 club Bordeaux beckoned.

The set-piece specialist returned to Australian Rugby with the Rebels for the 2019 and 2020 seasons but then headed back to France to take up a contract with Racing 92.

While back in Australia, Jones won three more caps for the Wallabies in the 2019 Rugby Championship and will bring top-level experience to the Reds secondrow.