The Queensland Rugby Union is delighted to announce that halfback Kalani Thomas has re-signed with the Queensland Reds through 2027.
The new two-year deal locks in one of Super Rugby’s game-changing halfbacks to continue his development at Ballymore.
Thomas, 23, had offers overseas to consider but was ultimately swayed by his desire to remain a Red in his home city and challenge himself to go as far as possible in Australian rugby.
“Being around home in a good environment and playing for a team I love, I didn’t want to leave,” Thomas said.
“I had a couple of options to consider but I want to commit in Australia, especially with the World Cup coming up in ’27.
“My ultimate goal is to play for the Wallabies. I may or may not but I’ll know I’ve given it my all.”
Thomas’ influence as a try-spark with a classy pass has been excellent in 2025 during his involvement in every game of the Reds campaign in Super Rugby Pacific.
He celebrated his 50th game for Queensland against Bristol to open the year in England. Friday night’s Qualifying Final against the Crusaders in Christchurch will be his 64th.
His strong form is no accident with Thomas having tapped into the holistic program offered at the Reds, particularly in the wellbeing and mental skills space. He credits work with Reds Head of Psychology Hayley Cronin for unlocking the right balance to excel.
“I was a real hothead in my younger days in terms of being a competitor who wanted things to be perfect,” Thomas said.
“With Hayley, I’ve worked heaps on the mental side of my game. The result has been the most confident I’ve felt playing footy in the last five years.
“I feel I can really take the game on, be myself, play with less worry and enjoy things rather than second guessing myself.
“The new coaching staff coming in last year has also been a real freshener.”
Thomas chose Ipswich Grammar as the setting for his re-signing photos because the school he first attended in Grade Eight helped shape him.
“I ducked down to the school a few times last year to help in some sessions with the halfbacks. It’s where I first came through in rugby,” Thomas added.
Thomas will be heading into his sixth season with the Reds in 2026 after a debut at just 18 in 2021. Later in that first season, he was throwing the final pass for the try that won the jubilant Reds their Super Rugby AU title at Suncorp Stadium.
The Reds have Wallaby Tate McDermott, Louis Werchon and now Thomas signed as a top halfback trio for 2026.
Thomas has featured in all 14 matches of Super Rugby Pacific this season, including two starts.
Reds Head Coach Les Kiss said Thomas’ commitment to the Reds is an excellent result.
“The quality of our halfbacks is a fantastic strength of ours," Kiss said.
"I'm really proud of the holistic program at the Reds which has seen Kalani not only benefit from the coaching team but work on the mental skills area with Hayley Cronin to improve his craft.
"His commitment has seen him flourish whether he's starting or making impact off the bench."
Position: Halfback
Height: 178cm
Weight: 91kg
Born: 18/04/2002
Place of birth: Darwin
Senior club: University of Queensland
School: Ipswich Grammar School
Junior Club: Souths
Queensland Debut: 2021 v NSW Waratahs, Sydney
Queensland Caps: 64
Queensland Points 22 (5 tries; 1 conversion)
