Queensland captain Samu Kerevi knows the importance of Friday's home clash with the Stormers given he is likely to be rested from the Super Rugby side's two-game trip to South Africa.
The in-form centre has been a Reds standout in a mixed 2-4 season but has indicated he will sit out those games as part of Rugby Australia's World Cup preparation.
Injuries to midfielders Jordan Petaia and Chris Feauai-Sautia have slightly clouded the plan, with Wallabies winger Sefa Naivalu moving to outside centre for the Suncorp Stadium clash.
But if stocks aren't further thinned Kerevi is determined to send them off on a winning note.
"We haven't looked that far ahead but the guys know every game is important," he said of a challenging three-week block against South African rivals.
"South Africa's a very tough place to go and win but (coach Brad Thorn) always says that it' a long way to go to lose.
"We focus on this week first then once we get to South Africa there's an understanding that guys will be rested ... (but) we back any guy that comes into our squad."
The captain anticipates Naivalu's move infield will enhance his impact in defence and attack, while allowing powerful winger Jack Hardy a chance in what will be his first Super Rugby start on Friday against the Cape Town outfit.
Hardy, 20, arrived at Ballymore from Perth in the off-season and has quickly earnt respect.
"He's just an awesome guy, before any footy stuff," Kerevi said.
"Keeps his head down, just a good human being and on the paddock works really hard.
"I think it's going to be an awesome balance."
Kerevi has urged his men to play with intelligence in an attempt to run a big pack off their feet as the 3-3 visitors attempt to break a two-game losing streak.
