The Queensland Reds' bright future has been reflected in versatile half Ben Lucas's decision to sign a new two-year contract to stay at Ballymore.

Hemmed in behind in-form Wallabies duo Will Genia and Quade Cooper, Lucas has seen little match time in 2010 as the Reds have risen to fourth on the Super 14 table.

"Obviously there is some good competition ahead of me at the moment, but (coach Ewen McKenzie) has some good ideas on how I can develop my game," Lucas said.

"As well as that, Queensland rugby is moving forward after some lean times and I want to be a part of it."

Able to play both halfback and five-eighth, Lucas first made his name by catching the eye of then Wallabies coach John Connolly with a commanding Brisbane club performance to almost make the 2007 World Cup squad.

Former Queensland coach Phil Mooney converted Lucas from a flyhalf to halfback in 2008 and he kept Genia out of the No.9 until midway through last season.

Lucas has also appeared at fullback for the Reds and could cover the custodian's role if Queensland lose the fight for Wallabies flyer Peter Hynes.

The 22-year-old's re-signing is also insurance if mercurial playmaker Cooper is swayed a huge offer from the Western Force.

McKenzie said Lucas's talent and flexibility made him a valuable member of his squad.

"You can only be as good as the depth of your squad allows and in Ben, we have someone who gives us multiple options because of his ability to play scrumhalf, flyhalf or even wider in the backline," he said.

Lucas is set to make his 25th Super 14 appearance off the bench for Queensland's clash with the Brumbies at Canberra Stadium on Saturday night.

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