Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, the highly anticipated multimillion-dollar recruit for the Waratahs, has been sidelined due to a toe injury sustained during the opening round. His absence will be felt in the upcoming match against the Fijian Drua at Allianz Stadium. Alongside him, inside centre Joey Walton will also miss the game, having suffered a groin injury in the same match against the Highlanders.
In light of these injuries, Andrew Kellaway, also a Wallaby, will step in for Suaalii, while Lalakai Foketi will transition from outside centre to fill Walton’s position. Additionally, Harry O’Donnell is set to make his Super Rugby Pacific debut at outside centre, and Isaac Kailea will debut for the Waratahs after joining from the now-defunct Melbourne Rebels.
Waratahs coach Dan McKellar has indicated that the full extent of Suaalii’s injury is still being assessed. He noted, “He pulled up sore but recovered quite well and we thought he would be right for this week, but unfortunately he is not.” The franchise and its supporters are hopeful that Suaalii’s setback will be a short-term issue.
Suaalii, who transferred from the Sydney Roosters, signed a significant three-year deal reported at $5.3 million with the Waratahs and the Wallabies, which also includes a two-year player option valued at $4 million. His move to rugby union has generated considerable excitement among fans and management alike.
The Waratahs had a thrilling start to the Super Rugby Pacific season, clinching a hard-fought 37-36 victory over the Highlanders before enjoying a bye in the following round. The team will look to maintain momentum as they adapt to the changes in their lineup for the match against the Fijian Drua.
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