Team news: Suaalii shifts to centre as Joey Walton takes over as NSW Waratahs captain
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was set for a long crack at fullback, but rugby’s $5 million man is set for a shock switch. Plus, Brumbies make four changes. Click for team news.
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JOSEPH-AUKUSO Suaalii will switch to centre in his return from injury, while the Waratahs have announced a surprise new captain for their clash against the Hurricanes in Wellington on Friday.
Superstar Suaalii has not played since round one when he injured his toe at fullback, but has been named at outside centre against the Canes, forming a midfield partnership with Joey Walton, who has been handed the captaincy and becomes NSW’s 179th skipper, with Hugh Sinclair rested.
Andrew Kellaway has also been rested for the match, and coach Dan McKellar has given Max Jorgensen the fullback jersey.
“Joseph has trained really well over the past couple of weeks and has done a great job in rehab,” McKellar said.
“It has been a frustrating period for him, but he’s ready to go, and we’re excited to see him back on the field. Positionally, we want to see how he goes at 13.
“The initial plan was for him to play fullback, but given he’s been out for five weeks, we feel outside centre is the best spot for him this week.”
It means Suaalii has only played one game at fullback since his switch from the NRL.
Suaalii played his four Tests for the Wallabies at outside centre on last year’s spring tour, and will be in contention for Australia’s No.13 and No.15 jerseys come the British & Irish Lions series in July.
There are a total of six changes to the Tahs team that defeated the Brumbies last week, with hooker Julian Heaven replacing Mahe Vailanu, who broke his arm in that game.
Miles Amatosero returns from a back injury to start as right lock, with Ben Grant as left lock in place of Sinclair, who is not in the squad.
Darby Lancaster has been selected on the right wing, with Jorgensen at fullback.
Archie Saunders comes into the starting line-up on the left wing for his Waratahs debut, replacing Triston Reilly, who has a shoulder injury.
On Walton as the new captain, McKellar said: “Joey has been a strong performer and a natural leader.
“He leads through his actions and communicates well with the group. It’s a proud moment for him and his family.”
The Tahs have opted for a 5-3 split bench this week. Hooker Ethan Dobbins has been named for his debut after joining the squad from the Melbourne Rebels.
Experienced centre Lalakai Foketi returns from a groin injury and will join playmaker Tane Edmed and scrumhalf Jack Grant as the three reserve backs.
“Against the Hurricanes, we anticipate a fast-paced and high-intensity contest,” McKellar said.
“That’s why we’ve gone with a 5-3 bench. Having Lalakai back fit and available gives us more options in the backline for the final stages of the game.”
BRUMBIES coach Stephen Larkham has made four changes to his team, for their match against the Highlanders in Canberra on Friday night.
Lock Lachlan Shaw, flanker Rory Scott, halfback Harrison Goddard and centre David Feliuai all return to the starting side, the latter having completed his return to play protocol following a concussion against the Fijian Drua in round five.
“We wanted to keep things fresh heading into this match, which is a must win for us, along with every other game remaining in the competition,” Larkham said.
“The pace and intensity of Super Rugby has increased this year, so it’s important we are giving players a rest when the opportunity arises.
“We’re under no illusions in terms of the challenge the Highlanders present this weekend. They are a physical side who have a young, potent backline that can produce pieces of brilliance. We are preparing thoroughly this week and will need to be at our best.”
Hooker Liam Bowron and scrum half Klayton Thorn are both named as substitutes and could make their first appearances of the season.
Prop Rhys van Nek will also take his place on the bench and may play his first game since his wife gave birth to a new baby.
Tuaina Taii Tualima has also recovered from dengue fever to be named as the replacement back row.
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