Tom Hooper set for Queensland Reds return in Blockbuster homecoming
Wallabies forward to rejoin Australian rugby in 2028 as the Reds secure one of their biggest signings for the 2029 season.
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA — In a move that has sent ripples of excitement through Australian rugby circles, Wallabies back-rower Tom Hooper has committed his long-term future to the Queensland Reds, marking what many are calling a blockbuster homecoming. The 25-year-old, currently shining in England’s Premiership with Exeter Chiefs, will link up with the Reds in mid-2028 ahead of the 2029 Super Rugby Pacific season.
The announcement, made jointly by Rugby Australia and the Queensland Rugby Union, represents more than just another signing. For Hooper, a Bathurst boy who cut his teeth with the ACT Brumbies, it is a heartfelt return to the country he never truly left behind in spirit. Standing at 1.99 meters and weighing in around 118-122 kg, Hooper has built a reputation as a tireless, physically dominant flanker capable of locking down opponents and delivering bone-crunching tackles. His journey from the junior fields of Bathurst Bulldogs to Test rugby has been one of steady ascent, earning 23 caps for the Wallabies and proving himself as a key figure in Australia’s forward pack.
Tom Hooper of Exeter Chiefs celebrates with Josh Iosefa-Scott after their victory during the Gallagher PREM match between Leicester Tigers and Exeter Chiefs at Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium on May 31, 2026 in Leicester, England. David Rogers/Getty Images
Hooper’s decision comes after a successful stint overseas, where he has adapted to the rigors of Northern Hemisphere rugby. Yet, those close to him say the pull of home was always going to win out. Speaking about the move, Hooper reflected on the emotional weight of the choice: ÔÇ£IÔÇÖve always loved this country, always wanted to come home,ÔÇØ he said. ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs a great club, a proud club.ÔÇØ His words carry the quiet determination of a player who has never forgotten his roots, even as he chased excellence abroad.
For the Reds, this is a major coup. Queensland has long been a powerhouse in Australian rugby, boasting passionate fans and a history of developing world-class talent. Bringing Hooper back adds serious steel to their back row and signals serious intent for future campaigns. Reds fans, who have endured their share of ups and downs in recent seasons, will see this as a statement of ambition. The club has been rebuilding with an eye toward sustained success, and HooperÔÇÖs arrivalÔÇöeven with the waitÔÇöinjects star power and leadership into the squad.
The deal is structured uniquely, allowing Hooper to see out his commitments with Exeter before seamlessly transitioning home. It secures his services through at least the end of 2030, giving the Reds stability in a key position while aligning with Rugby AustraliaÔÇÖs broader goals of retaining top Wallabies talent on home soil. Hooper himself has spoken of the fresh challenge that Queensland presents, opting for it over a potential return to the Brumbies, where he made his name with over 60 appearances.
This homecoming carries extra resonance for Hooper personally. Born on January 29, 2001, in Bathurst, New South Wales, he attended St StanislausÔÇÖ College and rose through the ranks with a blend of raw power and relentless work rate. Those who watched his early days remember a gangly youngster who played flyhalf before shifting to the back row, where his size and athleticism could be fully unleashed. His Wallabies debut in 2023 against South Africa marked the beginning of a promising international career, one that has included standout performances in tough Tests.
As the rugby community absorbs the news, anticipation is already building. Supporters are dreaming of Hooper in that iconic Reds jersey, charging down Suncorp StadiumÔÇÖs famous turf under the Friday night lights. For Australian rugby as a whole, itÔÇÖs a win ÔÇö a talented son returning to strengthen the domestic competition and bolster the national teamÔÇÖs depth.
HooperÔÇÖs path back wonÔÇÖt be without challenges. The transition from English club rugby back to Super RugbyÔÇÖs faster, more expansive style will require adjustment, and heÔÇÖll arrive with high expectations on his broad shoulders. Yet, those who know him best have little doubt heÔÇÖll rise to the occasion. In an era where Australian rugby needs its best and brightest to stay invested at home, HooperÔÇÖs commitment stands as a beacon of hope and pride.