Former Northern Suburbs skipper Ben Matwijow is closing in on making his Super Rugby debut after being signed by the Queensland Reds as cover for injured Wallabies lock Kane Douglas. Following another strong Shute Shield season, the 26-year old lock crossed the ditch late last year to help Canterbury claim the ITM Cup, before returning to Australia to join the Reds ahead of the 2016 Super Rugby season. “I’ve got a lot of time for Ben. His effort and work ethic is fantastic and he sees this as a genuine opportunity for him to play Super Rugby,” Reds coach Richard Graham told Rugby News. “Kane’s (Douglas) injury was obviously a big disappointment for us, but it has created an opportunity for Ben so it will be interesting to see what he can do with it.” With Rob Simmons and Cadeyrn Neville set to be given first crack at the Reds starting lock positions, Matwijow will battle 20-year old giant Lukhan Tui for a spot on the Reds bench when the Super Rugby season kicks off next