Harry McLaughlin-Phillips among five released as Queensland Reds reshape their squad

Queensland Reds have released five players — including rising fly-half Harry McLaughlin-Phillips and former All Blacks prop Jeffery Toomaga-Allen — as the club reshapes its roster following the Super Rugby Pacific season. The departing quintet collectively amassed more than 170 appearances for the Ballymore-based franchise.

McLaughlin-Phillips, 22, leaves having enjoyed his most productive campaign yet, starting six of his 11 appearances in 2026. He wore the No. 10 jersey for the first time at Suncorp Stadium during the Reds’ clash with the ACT Brumbies on 2 May, a milestone that arrived despite fierce competition for the playmaker role from Wallabies Carter Gordon and Tom Lynagh, as well as Flying Fijians pivot Ben Volavola.

The fly-half had steadily built his profile before his departure, featuring against the British & Irish Lions last July and representing the AUNZ Invitational XV and Australia A in 2025. He cited wins over the Chiefs and the Fijian Drua in Fiji as personal highlights.

“I feel I was encouraged and learnt a lot from the coaches all through my time at the Reds,” McLaughlin-Phillips said. “I’ve grown as a player and as a man. Being able to train and learn with international fly-halves around you at Ballymore was a big plus.”

Toomaga-Allen departs after three seasons and 43 appearances in Queensland colours, having reached the 150-game Super Rugby milestone during the 2026 campaign. The capped All Black, who previously enjoyed a decorated stint with the Hurricanes, singled out playing against the Lions and away victories over the Crusaders in Christchurch and the Fijian Drua as standout moments.

“I became a Queenslander,” Toomaga-Allen said. “I cherish how the Reds really involved my wife and kids. There are great building blocks for success with the number of 50 and 100-cap players in the squad and the culture that keeps building.”

Hooker Richie Asiata also departs after six seasons and 54 matches, including a try in the Reds’ win away to the Fijian Drua in round six of the 2026 season. Halfback Louis Werchon and outside back Jeremaia Murray complete the five players farewelled by the club.