A New Chapter for Angus Blyth
Angus Blyth is ready to make a statement as he steps onto the field for the NSW Waratahs, marking a new chapter in his rugby career. Known for his strong presence on the pitch, Blyth has been vocal about his desire to “bark back” at his former team, the Queensland Reds. This sentiment comes after accusations that his old captain was engaging in “sledging from the sidelines.”
Blyth’s debut with the Waratahs is set for Friday’s Super Rugby Pacific opener against the traditional rivals in Sydney. The match promises to be an intense encounter, especially given Blyth’s history with the Reds. In the 2020 Super Rugby AU final, he had ‘REDS’ shaved into the back of his head, and now he’s teasing the possibility of a fresh look, perhaps with ‘TAHS’ on his scalp.
When asked if ‘TAHS’ was an option, Blyth responded with a cryptic “We’ll have to see Friday night.” This hint of a new hairdo adds to the anticipation surrounding the match. Blyth has already faced his former side in a trial game last month, where the Waratahs dominated the Reds 49-19.
“That was a bit of a taster … the real thing is Friday night,” he said. “I’m sure there will be plenty of chat from them and I’ll be dishing out some chat as well. But we’re there to win the game, do a job.”
The pre-match banter has been lively, with unexpected sources contributing to the chatter. Notably, injured Reds halfback Tate McDermott, who has been replaced as captain by Fraser McReight this season, has been firing shots at Blyth.
“I’m friends with all of them off the field. On the pitch it’s all hands on deck, we’re going for it,” Blyth said. “Most of the chat I’ve been getting is from Tatey … sledging from the sidelines. I’m pretty sure I heard him from the crowd in that trial game.”
A Journey from Kingscliff to the Reds
Born in NSW, Blyth’s rugby journey began in Kingscliff before a high school move to The Southport School opened doors to the Queensland Reds. Over the past eight seasons, he has played for the Reds, earning four Test caps. Now, he’s returning to his home state, joining fellow lock recruit and new skipper Matt Philip.
“I support the Blues in State of Origin; being born here, you have that allegiance,” he explained. “Playing for Queensland, I see that as my job, over the last eight years and now my job here is in NSW, so playing for the Waratahs.”
The Waratahs roster includes other notable players such as flyhalf Lawson Creighton and second-rower Angus Scott-Young. Additionally, coach Dan McKellar has a history with the Reds, and former Reds coach Les Kiss once served as an assistant coach for the Waratahs.
Last season, the Waratahs started strong, winning four of their first five games. However, they struggled in the latter part of the season, losing seven of their last nine matches and finishing eighth, missing the finals.
“We’ve put a lot of work in this off season; it’s a great feeling in camp and we’re keen, looking to rip in,” Blyth said. With a renewed focus and determination, Blyth and the Waratahs are ready to make their mark in the upcoming season.
