Queensland general Will Genia believes the retention of skipper James Horwill and three more Wallabies forwards will ensure the Reds remain a Super Rugby force despite the loss of mentor Ewen McKenzie.
Horwill, second-row partner Rob Simmons, prop James Slipper and hooker James Hanson are set to re-sign with the Reds in coming weeks in a major boost to the 2011 champions.
Wallabies captain Horwill confirmed on Thursday he was deep in discussions for a new Australian Rugby Union (ARU) contract but was poised to be a one-club man for the Reds.
In-form lock Simmons and 34-Test tight-head Slipper have also knocked back interest interstate and overseas to stay at Ballymore but have yet to have new contracts finalised with the ARU.
Hanson, who made his Test debut last year, has agreed to terms after knocking back approaches from the Western Force and NSW.
Genia said the quartet’s retention was crucial to future success.
“They’re key guys who have been very important to building the culture that we’re very proud of here,” he told AAP.
“To have them stay speaks a lot about what this group means to Queensland rugby and means to each other.
“It gives the rest of us a hell of a lot of confidence in what we’re doing is right.”
Looking to become a Test coach after four seasons with the Reds, McKenzie will hand over the top coaching reins to Richard Graham when the 2013 Super Rugby competition ends.
Graham, who defected from the Western force last year, has headed the Reds retention process for 2014.
“It’s incredibly disappointing that Ewen is leaving but such is life,” Genia said. “But what (the re-signings) show is how tight the group itself is.”
Running fourth in the competition, Queensland (5-2) could jump to the top of the Super Rugby table with an upset win over the defending champion Chiefs in Hamilton on Saturday.
The Reds have won their past three clashes against the Waikato side, including a 42-27 victory last season when they came from 14 points down in Brisbane.
“We got towelled up against them last year, so it’s going to be a hell of a challenge,” said Chiefs coach Dave Rennie.
