Ben Volavola is set to make his Queensland Reds debut off the bench this Saturday, providing a high-profile boost to the Reds as they travel to Churchill Park in Lautoka to take on the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua. The 34-year-old former FIJI Water Flying Fijians flyhalf will experience a rare homecoming, running out in front of fellow Fijians for the first time in years since his international days with Fiji.
Volavola has been named among the replacements and is expected to come on in the second half, giving the Reds a seasoned playmaking option late in the contest. His inclusion is the most conspicuous change to the Reds’ matchday 23 announced ahead of round six of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition, and will attract attention from local supporters keen to see a familiar face back on home soil.
Reds coach Les Kiss framed the selection as part of a broader player-management plan, confirming the team will be without three Wallabies — Carter Gordon, Fraser McReight and Zane Nonggorr — for the Lautoka fixture. Kiss said the absences are deliberate and fall under planned “regeneration weeks” designed to manage workload and keep the squad fresh across a long campaign. The move hands opportunities to depth players such as Volavola while prioritising the long-term availability of Rugby Australia-selected players.
The match will also mark a milestone for fullback Jock Campbell, who is set to make his 100th appearance for the Reds. Campbell’s century comes at a significant moment for the club as it looks to steady results in the early rounds; his experience will be counted on to marshal the backline in unfamiliar conditions at Churchill Park.
Kiss warned that the Reds will face a stern test in Lautoka, noting the Drua’s strong home form and momentum from consecutive wins. The Fijian side have built a reputation for physicality and flair in front of their home crowd, and Kiss said the Reds are preparing for a volatile, high-energy encounter where composure and execution will be decisive.
Kickoff is scheduled for 3.35pm this Saturday at Churchill Park. Live coverage of the match will be available locally on FBC Sports HD and via the Walesi set-top box, allowing fans in Fiji to follow Volavola’s return to Fijian soil and Campbell’s milestone. The game represents the latest development in the Reds’ season as coach Kiss balances player rotation with competitive ambitions, and offers the Drua another opportunity to reinforce their standing at home.
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