Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii Makes Bold Rugby Union Debut Against England
- Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii will start in the outside center position for the match against England.
- Suaalii has not played a senior rugby union match but is supported by Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt.
- His selection is part of a broader strategy as Australia prepares for a crucial series of matches.
Australia has made a significant decision by selecting Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, a rugby league convert, to start in their upcoming match against England at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on November 9. Suaalii, who previously played rugby union as a schoolboy, has not yet participated in a senior rugby union game but has received strong backing from Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt. The decision comes after a crucial code switch ahead of the Autumn Nations Series. Alongside Suaalii's inclusion, the rest of the team remains largely unchanged from the last match against New Zealand, maintaining stability in the side. Schmidt has expressed confidence in the players' readiness, highlighting their successful training sessions ahead of this challenging encounter. This match represents an important opportunity for Suaalii to showcase his talent at a higher level, given his recent agreement with Rugby Australia. His contract reportedly amounts to around £800,000 a year, indicating the national team's expectation for him to make an impact during a pivotal year for Australian rugby. The squad is preparing for a demanding tour that includes matches against all four home nations and the upcoming British and Irish Lions next summer.