Bull Sharks dominate selections for Challenger Series

Bull Sharks stalwart Angus Blyth has been named captain of the Queensland Reds development squad for the inaugural Queensland Rugby Challenger series on Sunday. 

He's among the 12 Bull Sharks selected for the two-match series between the Queensland President’s XV and the Queensland Reds development squad. 

The series aims to give less experienced players an opportunity to play at a higher level and the chance to be selected for the Reds’ upcoming Japan tour. 

Blyth wil join brother Wilson, George Blake, Zane Nonggor and Spencer Jeans, who are already contracted to the Reds, in the development squad, along with newcomer Joey Fittock, who has been tapped for the side after another strong season with Bond.  

The President’s XV, made up of non-contracted players, will feature Bull Sharks Connor Pritchard, Jake Upfield, Levi Samuela, Rhys Sheriff, Dan Boardman and Tyler Campbell. 

It was an especially proud moment for front row partners Rhys Sheriff and Levi Samuela to be selected after their first season at Bond.  

“It was a pretty good feeling getting the call to be playing in this series and to be playing against the Reds with the chance to go on tour - it’s a very exciting time,” Sheriff said.  

Samuela, who played regularly in second grade and first grade during the year, is eager for the challenge ahead. 

“I’m really looking forward to going up against some of the Bond boys in the Reds, especially if I get the opportunity to scrum against Zane, George and the Blyth boys. They brought a big lift to the team when they played so it’ll be fun to go against them,” he said.  

Samuela and Sheriff are ready for the step-up at scrum time against a Super Rugby pack but are glad to be packing down together. 

“Rhys had a massive season this year for us and will bring a lot of confidence to my game knowing that he’ll be on the other side of the scrum with me,” Samuela said.  

The Challenger series kicks off on Sunday October 9 at Sunnybank rugby club from 4pm.