Rugby Star Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii Ready for Instant Impact
After a brief holiday on Hamilton Island, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is raring to go, declaring himself ready to join the Wallabies or Australia A on their UK tour next month. The 21-year-old rugby star took his first steps towards returning to the 15-player game on Monday, joining Waratahs and Brumbies players in Canberra for a training camp.
A Confident Return to Rugby
Suaalii expressed his confidence in his abilities, saying, “If they throw me in, I’m ready to go. I’ve always backed myself playing footy, I’ve always backed myself going against anyone.” When asked about his preference for the Wallabies or Australia A, Suaalii added, “I feel like anywhere, honestly, wherever Joe [Schmidt] puts me [I’ll be ready].”
Uncertainty Surrounds Playing Position
There is uncertainty surrounding Suaalii’s playing position, with the natural path starting him on the wing and progressing to fullback or midfield. However, Suaalii is open to playing anywhere, saying, “I feel like I’m just a footy player at the end of the day, any position I’m ready to play.”
A Critical Moment for Australian Rugby
Suaalii’s return to rugby comes at a critical moment for the game in Australia. His rumoured $1.6m per season deal has divided opinion, and the Wallabies have won only four of nine Tests so far in 2024. Despite this, Suaalii believes there is enough talent in the team to take them forward.
A Strong Base for the Wallabies
Suaalii expressed his confidence in the team, saying, “I feel like we have got a lot of quality boys in the team… There is a strong base here at the Wallabies, and I’m just very keen to be a part of the team and I’m very confident in the team, too.”
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