State of Origin 2024 early mail: Rugby-bound Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on NSW Blues aspirations

Joseph Suaalii’s Origin eligibility has caused some stir due to his impending code switch, leading to the Roosters star hitting back at critics who say he’ll prioritise a Wallabies jersey over a sky blue debut.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MAY 12: Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii of the Roosters in action during the round 10 NRL match between Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Warriors at Allianz Stadium, on May 12, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Sydney Roosters sensation Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has hit out at suggestions he has prioritised a Wallabies jersey over a sky blue debut, insisting it has always been his dream to play State of Origin for NSW.

Suaalii is believed to be edging closer to a Blues jersey after a string of strong performances for the Roosters, catching the attention of NSW coach Michael Maguire in the process.

Some have suggested he shouldn’t be in the frame given he will switch codes at the end of the season - those critics claim that his move to rugby union is evidence that he dreams of playing for the Wallabies rather than the Blues.

Suaalii insists that is not the case.

“It has always been a dream of mine to play for State of Origin,” Suaalii said.

“I have been playing rugby league since I was four years old and for anyone to say it is not my dream, I think it is a bit silly.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was solid against the Sharks despite a loss. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

“It is my dream to play at the top level but I am focused on playing well for the Roosters.”

Suaalii did his cause no harm with his performance against Cronulla on Saturday night at Suncorp Stadium. The Roosters were beaten but Suaalii was solid in the centres, his night highlighted by a flick pass for Dom Young’s first half try.

He was sin-binned later in the game for a professional foul but has been one of the Roosters’ most consistent performers this year, hence the talk of an Origin debut.

Should Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii be in NSW colours? Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

Penrith winger Brian To’o appears to be a certain selection but Suaalii, St George Illawarra’s Zac Lomax and Canterbury’s Josh Addo-Carr are locked in a battle for the other wing spot.

Suaalii has one more opportunity to press his claims against Canberra next weekend and insists if he is called upon by Maguire, he is more than ready.

“I am ready for the job if Madge picks me,” he said.

“I am focusing on playing for the Roosters and that is it. But if the opportunity comes I am ready to take it with two hands.

“I feel like I have put a lot of work into my game. When State of Origin’s played, I feel like the Roosters style of footy resembles what Origin does.

“It is a dream of mine to play State of Origin.”

Meanwhile, Cronulla centre Jesse Ramien has spoken about the phone call from Maguire that gave him hope of an Origin debut.

Ramien has been outstanding this season for the league-leading Sharks and with centre options dropping like flies for the Blues, he is now well and truly in the mix.

“He just gave me a call to let me know I was in contention and he wants me to continue to play good footy,” Damien said.

“It was probably about two weeks now. People are going to talk and what not but I only want to focus on playing good footy for my club and representative honours come on the back of that... if it comes, I’ll take it with both hands.”

Asked whether his form warranted selection ahead of other contenders, Ramien said: “You could say that.

“At the end of the day it’s up to Madge and whoever chooses the side.They’ll choose the best side they think... you can be in form, but that can only do so much to put you in contention. At the end of the day, the selectors make the choice.”

Originally published as State of Origin 2024 early mail: Rugby-bound Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on NSW Blues aspirations