Tom Lynagh, who was born in Italy and grew up in England, shocked his former World Cup-winning Wallabies father Michael when he said he wanted to play for the Queensland Reds.
While his older brother Louis looks on course to play for England after starring for Harlequins last season, the 17-year-old instead is dreaming of pulling on the gold jersey.
“I have always dreamt of playing for Australia,” he said after emerging from two weeks of quarantine.
“I might not get the opportunity but it’s just about the dream and the Queensland Reds seem like a good place to help me reach that.
“I like the brand of rugby that’s played down here, felt it was my style of play.”
Despite Tom now following in his footsteps he said his 100 Reds caps and 72 Test were not regular topics at the dinner table.
“I get stick from the boys when I start talking, but it’s all been pretty low key, we don’t have memorabilia around the house,” Michael said.
“Going through school people know the name and they’ve dealt with it very well.
“We’re pleased Tom’s made this huge decision, a big, bold decision and hopefully he’ll find his way and make his own stories.”
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Here’s a list of rugby legends sons who are set to play in the Six Nations, including a young Lomu.
1. Lucas Brooke (England)
- Age: 19
- Club: London Irish
- Position: back-row
- Dad: Zinzan Brooke (New Zealand)
Brooke, who can play across the back-row or at hooker, grew up in England so is fully qualified to wear the red rose. The powerhouse has represented Berkshire at county level and regularly played for his school, Wellington College.