Karmichael Hunt wants to stay a Qld Red

Apr 12, 2017 - 3:41 AM The future of Australian rugby may be up in the air but Karmichael Hunt is certain his lies with the Queensland Reds.

At 30, Hunt aims to earn a contract extension at the Reds amid Australian rugby's most turbulent period.

The ARU are yet to decide whether to cut the Western Force or Melbourne Rebels, extending their Thursday deadline so the under fire Super Rugby outfits can plea their case.

Hunt said Super Rugby contracts for next season would be scarce with an influx of players from the axed franchise but has ruled out yet another code switch in 2018.

"My body has had enough of the transitions" Hunt said.

"I am pretty comfortable at 94kg and playing.

"And I am loving my rugby. I have not had this much fun in a long time.

"But there will be less contracts available next year.

"There is uncertainty for everyone."

Hunt will get his chance to stake a claim for a new deal when he returns from concussion in Saturday's Super Rugby clash with Southern Kings at Suncorp Stadium.

Former Brisbane Bronco Hunt has had a rollercoaster ride since leaving AFL club Gold Coast Suns for the Reds in late 2014.

He was fined, stripped of the vice-captaincy and copped a six match ban for a cocaine scandal just months into his Reds tenure.

Injuries have been an issue since.

Most recently his 2016 Wallabies hopes were sabotaged off by groin dramas.

Now fully fit again, Hunt said he was finally primed to deliver for the Reds.

"My journey is pretty well documented and there have been a lot of challenges but now I feel like I am in good stead to keep building on my performances and playing good rugby," he said.

In the meantime, Hunt said he would be waiting and watching like every other player for the ARU's verdict on the Western Force and Melbourne.

The Rebels and Force are almost certain to be left on tenterhooks until at least next Tuesday before the ARU hands down its decision.

"It's a difficult time for fellow players and Australian rugby," Hunt said.

"A few futures are up in the air because we are not sure how the ARU is going to go.

"As players we wanted to stand for a five-team competition in Australia but obviously they have gone the other way."

Source: AAP