Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is once again stealing the spotlight, but this time, it’s not just about his talent—it’s about where he’s playing. And this is the part most people miss: despite his versatility, Suaalii is set to don the No.13 jersey for the NSW Waratahs for the second week in a row, sparking curiosity about his long-term position. There’s been no top-down directive to shift him to the centres, but his performance there has been nothing short of impressive, especially during the Waratahs’ commanding win over the Queensland Reds in the season opener. His defensive prowess at outside centre has earned him another shot in the same role against the Fijian Drua in round two.
But here’s where it gets controversial: is this positional shift a strategic move, or simply a matter of where Suaalii shines brightest? Waratahs coach Dan McKellar insists there’s no hidden agenda. ‘We just thought that [fullback] suited him in his first year in rugby,’ McKellar explained. ‘He’s played a lot of 13 since, and that’s where we’re seeing him at the moment, but we’ll keep an open mind.’ Bold claim or not? It’s clear that Suaalii’s adaptability is a strength, not a weakness.
Meanwhile, Wallabies back Andrew Kellaway remains sidelined, with McKellar citing a lingering knee injury as the reason. ‘He’s a bit underdone,’ McKellar noted, adding that Kellaway will need to fight for his spot. Another notable omission is rugby sevens recruit Sid Harvey, whose pinpoint left-footed kicks weren’t enough to secure a place in the lineup. Instead, newcomer James Hendren gets another chance to impress at fullback.
The Drua, fresh off a narrow loss to Moana Pasifika, have reshuffled their squad, with co-captain Frank Lomani returning to halfback in a new halves partnership with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula. But here’s the real question: Can they bounce back against the Waratahs after last season’s close call?
Elsewhere, the Brumbies are gearing up to face the defending champion Crusaders in Christchurch, with prop James Slipper set to make his 200th Super Rugby appearance—a milestone that puts him within striking distance of Wyatt Crockett’s record. Meanwhile, the Western Force welcome back Darcy Swain for their clash with the Blues, though they’ll miss Nick Champion de Crespigny due to injury. And the Reds? They’re nursing their injuries during a much-needed bye week.
What do you think? Is Suaalii’s shift to the centres a masterstroke or a missed opportunity? And how will the Drua fare against the Waratahs this time around? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
