He was initially resistant to the move north but Harry Wilson is well and truly entrenched as a Queenslander now.
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Three years after bursting onto the Super Rugby scene, the former Gunnedah junior joined an illustrious group at the Reds on the weekend, earning his 50th cap.
Unfortunately they couldn't get the job done for his milestone game, going down to the Rebels 40-34.
But the No.8 was typically heavily involved. He was the Reds top carrier with 20 for a best of the forwards 55 metres and up there in the defensive stats.
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Presented his special maroon cap by good mate and fellow back-rower Fraser McReight, Wilson, who wrote of being "honoured" to bring up 50 caps, thanked the Reds coaching staff for everything they have done for him, his team-mates and his parents, Cameron and Mandy.
"It's pretty special to have you guys here," he said, addressing his parents, who had made the trip down from Brisbane.
"Every step of the way in my career you've supported me, the ups and downs. So on a night like this it's awesome having you here."
He also thanked the Reds coaching staff for everything they have done for him, and his team-mates.
Since making his debut against the Brumbies in the opening round of the 2020 season, the 23-year-old has become an integral part of the Reds' pack and one of their most consistent performers.
His performances through the early rounds of the 2020 competition, before it was halted due to the coronavirus outbreak, led to him being judged by the rugby public as the best Australian player.
He then last year won the Stan Pilecki Medal as the Reds' best and fairest.
McReight joked that Wilson was "born a New South Welshman" but is now "a true and true Queenslander".
He also spoke of a great team man and someone who always "gives 100 per cent to his team and to his state".
"It's a pretty big milestone for you. I know you've wanted this for a long time," he said.
"Pretty gutted for you but look at the work you did tonight, you carried us, and I think that's a true testament to who you are as a person and you give 110 per cent at everything you do."
Wilson's milestone comes three weeks after Inverell product Jock Campbell played his 50th game for the Reds.
