"No pressure" - Fraser McReight previews winless Queensland Reds' first home game of the season

They are also one of only two sides to have played just once so far, meaning there is little time to dwell on that result as they prepare for their first home game of the year at Suncorp Stadium.

The challenge comes from the Highlanders, a side whose form has fluctuated across the opening rounds. The Dunedin outfit stunned the Crusaders in dramatic fashion on opening night before falling short against the Chiefs, also at home. Their early performances suggest they carry both attacking spark and vulnerability, a combination that promises an open contest in Brisbane.

For Reds flanker Fraser McReight, the return to home turf offers a timely reset. The 27-year-old, a former Junior Wallabies captain and now an established Wallaby, is eager to embrace the atmosphere.

"Excited to be back home, we love it up here and playing in front of such a great fanbase, families, we can't ask for anything more coming off a bye too so really looking forward to it."

Despite the pressure that can build after a comprehensive loss, McReight insists the focus internally has remained steady.

"No pressure. We're just here to get better, working on things that we know we can get better at and improving each game."

The Highlanders will test that resolve. McReight is under no illusions about the threats they pose.

"They look like they've got a bag of tricks and some really talented players, they're coached really well. They've started the season really well."

Back across the Tasman, Australian teams have already made a statement. The Brumbies’ emphatic 50-24 win over the Crusaders in Christchurch, highlighted by James Slipper scoring in his 200th game, reverberated around the competition. McReight was full of praise.

"What a man and to get him over the line on a really special day for him and his family and to even score, we all watched him throughout and we all feel so good for Australian rugby but also for that man"

That result has set a benchmark for the rest of the Australian conference. McReight believes it offers inspiration without distraction.

"They're a great side and they've lost some key players but they still contribute and do really well. As an outsider looking in, we want to replicate that and for us, not really holding any emotional value to that and just worrying about what we can worry about up here in Queensland and doing what's right, focusing on ourselves and what we can individually bring and what you can collectively bring.

"Really happy for them, I think it's really great for the competition and for us now, it's our job to continue to strive to that success."