Super Rugby LIVE: Waratahs host Reds in must-win match to keep finals hopes alive

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How will tonight’s match play out?

‘Predictable and powerful’: Schmidt reacts to Lions squad

The British and Irish Lions named their squad overnight. Iain Payten was all over it, in case you haven’t read about it or seen the squad. Hint: a few Aussies in there.

Wallabies coach and former Ireland boss Joe Schmidt was just on Stan Sport talking about his thoughts on the squad.

“Predictable and powerful,” Schmidt said. “Good strength and depth. Maybe a couple of surprises but a really strong squad. I think they’re going to play with plenty of pace and phases.

“Anxious, excited. I can’t for it to arrive.”

Key stats ahead of this Waratahs and Reds clash

Courtesy of the good folk at Opta.

Reds’ dominance Over Waratahs: Queensland have won seven of their last eight meetings with NSW, including each of the past three. Their most recent win in Sydney was a 27-26 nail-biter in 2024.
Waratahs’ losing momentum: NSW have lost four of their last five matches, including their last two. This comes after starting the season winning four from five. They haven’t managed to score more than 17 points in their past two outings.
Waratahs strong at home: Despite recent struggles, the Waratahs have won their last five home games, with an average winning margin of 8.4 points. Their last longer home streak was in 2014 when they won all 10.
Reds’ away woes: The Reds have lost three of their last four away games, including the last two. They haven’t lost more than two away games in a row since a four-match streak between 2023 and 2024.
Tackling Trends: Queensland are the most efficient tackling side in the competition, averaging just 2.2 missed tackles that lead to line breaks per game. The Waratahs, by contrast, average a competition-worst 7.6.

A word from Drennan at Allianz Stadium

“It’s a perfect night for rugby with fans already in the stadium for an entertaining opener between Shore and Barker.

“Onto the main event, the Waratahs have played ten games, winning five at home and losing five on the road. Tonight they face the Reds and will be hoping that home comforts help them home. The major ins for NSW are Dave Porecki coming back at hooker from an achilles to provide leadership and some physicality for a pack that was beaten up last week in Canberra by the Brumbies.

“The Reds have their own injury concerns, with No.8 Harry Wilson still nursing his broken arm, but the return of second-rowers Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Josh Canham could be crucial.”