Wallabies centre Izaia Perese has set his sights on earning selection for the 2027 Rugby World Cup after signing a two-year deal with the Queensland Reds and Rugby Australia.

The 29-year-old, who has made six Test appearances for Australia, will return to Australian rugby after spending the past two seasons with English Premiership club Leicester.

Perese said returning home was the right decision for both his career and his family, adding that while representing the Wallabies at the 2027 Rugby World Cup remains a major goal, his immediate focus is on performing well for the Reds.

The Brisbane-born back previously played for Queensland between 2016 and 2018 before switching to rugby league with the Brisbane Broncos.

He returned to rugby union in 2020 with French club Bayonne, later joining the NSW Waratahs before moving to Leicester in 2024.

Perese said his time overseas helped him develop into a more complete player, particularly in areas such as defence, kick chase and adapting to different playing environments.

Queensland Reds General Manager of High Performance Sam Cordingley welcomed Perese’s return, saying his experience in France and England would add valuable depth to the squad.

Rugby Australia Director of High Performance Peter Horne also praised the signing, describing Perese as an experienced and motivated player whose return strengthens Australia’s playing depth ahead of a crucial period for the national game.

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