‘Only just getting started’: Lukhan Salakaia-Loto extends with Rugby Australia until end of 2028

0
16

Lukhan Salakaia-Loto has extended with Rugby Australia for another three years, which will keep the experienced lock in the fray for the 2027 World Cup on home soil.

Since arriving on Aussie shores at a young age, Salakai-Loto has established himself as a formidable force in the pack and made his Wallabies debut at 21 years of age.

Salakaia-Loto has since gone on to represent his country on 30 occasions and became a mainstay under coach Joe Schmidt last year, playing 11 of 13 Test matches.

His extension will also see him stay with the Queensland Reds long-term, after returning to the Super Rugby franchise this year following a brief stint with the now defunct Melbourne Rebels.

"Securing my future is massively important for me and my family and it's pretty cool that I get to continue my career here at the Reds," the 28-year-old said.

Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in action against the All Blacks in 2024.  Getty

"I'm looking forward giving back to the club that's invested a lot in myself and my family.

"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 and hopefully I can put my best foot forward in a Reds jersey and a Wallabies jersey is something that I can continue to earn.

Watch all the action from the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season on Stan Sport, the only place to watch every match ad free, live and on demand

"The goal at the beginning of last year was to put the Wallabies jersey on again and it's the goal again this year but I know that only comes from my performances for the Reds.

"To be at home for the next couple of years with my family settled here I think that's important for me to be able to produce some good rugby."

The news of his new contract comes after Wallabies captain Harry Wilson also re-signed with the Reds last month.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here