Duncan Paia’aua
Injured Reds flyhalf Quade Cooper has backed rookie Duncan Paia’aua to fill in as his replacement over the few first few months of the new season.
Cooper is set to miss the first 3 months of Super Rugby after fracturing his collarbone in a “freak accident” during a training match against the Reds’ Under 20 side.
And although former Wallabies flyhalf James O’Connor is in the Brisbane-based franchise’s squad, 20-year-old Paia’aua is the favourite to take over from Cooper.
Paia’aua joined the Reds from NRL side the Brisbane Broncos after helping them to win the National Youth Competition Grand Final in the 13-man code last season.
He is set to wear the No 10 jersey when the Reds face the Rebels in a warm-up match in Cairns this weekend and Cooper believes he has the potential to make the step up to Super Rugby.
“We’ve recruited a young kid, Duncan, he is going really well, all the boys really enjoy him, he is learning every week,” Cooper said.
“We’ve got a few options but he is a guy that in pre-season we’ve been putting in there a lot, making sure we do have cover for that position.
“He is a good kid, I really enjoy his company, I really enjoy him as a team-mate.
“I’ve been able to offer him advice because he hasn’t really played much rugby.
“He is a great talent, he has all the skills to be a great player.”
Duncan Paia’aua