Benetton sign Wallaby Josh Flook in landmark 4-player deal with Reds

The Reds and Benetton have struck a landmark deal which will see four players move to the Italian outfit on short-term deals, with the clubs playing each other in November.

Wallabies centre Josh Flook is one of the four Reds players who will move to the United Rugby Championship club in July until October, allowing them to play in the opening rounds of the URC.

They will then return to their temporary home in November as part of the Reds’ Super Rugby Pacific pre-season preparations.

The match could potentially see brothers, Wallabies and Reds fly-half Tom Lynagh and Italy and Benetton wing Louis Lynagh, face each other, though both will likely be representing their countries in the Autumn Nations Series. Their father, Wallabies great Michael Lynagh, represented both clubs in the 1990s.

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The quartet heading to Benetton will remain eligible to represent Australia during that time, as part of their agreement.

“The connection was made through Michael Lynagh. Right from the start, we have felt a genuine will to create opportunities that can benefit two proud clubs and two strong brands,” Reds general manager Sam Cordingley said.

“Michael’s history with Benetton Rugby and as a 100-game legend with the Reds makes this unique. Obviously, Michael’s son Tom plays for the Reds and brother Louis plays for Benetton Rugby.

“In my conversations with Antonio [general manager of Benetton], we have talked through all things URC and Benetton Rugby and where the needs and opportunities lie for both clubs. Mutual benefits will drive this partnership.

“The wonderful experiences through secondments like this will not only support player development, with more matches outside Super Rugby, but also retention. The players will also add depth in key positions at Benetton Rugby.

“We want to be a club that leverages the appeal of rugby as an international game through strong partnerships with Benetton Rugby and Japan’s Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights, overseas tours and unique player-staff experiences.

“Rather than players leaving the club to experience chances like this, we are creating something unique while they are still Reds players with secondments at a famous club in a beautiful part of Italy.

“We hope to be creating fixtures and opportunities with Benetton Rugby long into the future.”