This was published 7 years ago
Scott Higginbotham to return to Queensland with new deal at the Reds
By Phil Lutton
Prodigal son Scott Higginbotham stands to be the finishing touch on the revamped Queensland Reds squad when they unveil their 2017 Super Rugby roster at Ballymore on Wednesday morning.
The backrower played 64 games for the Reds from 2008 to 2012 before being squeezed out and joining the Melbourne Rebels. He now plays in Japan for NEC Green Rockets and it's understood he will link with his former province for three seasons once his overseas commitments are complete early next year.
His signature adds more depth to a Reds outfit desperate to regain some sway in the Super Rugby competition under Nick Stiles, who will be in charge for the first time after sharing duties with Matt O'Connor in the wake of Richard Graham's sacking.
Queensland will also confirm the acquisition of Brisbane Broncos winger Lachlan Maranta, who has struggled for regular playing time at Red Hill and played rugby union during school.
Scott Higginbotham
Samu Kerevi, who is quickly becoming the most damaging backline runner in Australia, has already re-signed for Queensland, while Quade Cooper, Stephen Moore, Leroy Houston, Caleb Timu and George Smith will also take their place in the Red jersey.
Wallabies' James Slipper, Rob Simmons, Kane Douglas and Nick Frisby remain under contract.
The Reds won the Super Rugby title in 2011, made the finals for the following two seasons but have struggled badly since, finishing 13th, 13th and 15th in their past three campaigns.
Far more will be expected of them this time around with marquee names like Smith joining the fold, as well as the return of Cooper, who has now found a home in the Wallaby No.10 jumper.