What’s the Buzz: Roosters ready themselves for Joseph Suaalii bidding war

Rugby Australia has made their interest in gun young Rooster Joseph Suaalii clear – but billionaire Nick Politis rarely loses a bidding battle.

Joseph Suaalii is in the crosshairs of Rugby Australia. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Billionaire Roosters boss Nick Politis is gearing up for a multimillion-dollar cheque book showdown with Rugby Australia for boom teenager Joseph Suaalii.

RA is on record as wanting Suaalii and Canterbury Bulldogs star Matt Burton in the build-up to the 2027 World Cup in Australia, as reported in this column a fortnight ago.

“Who wouldn’t want Joseph?,” Politis said. “He’s obviously a special player and person.

“The last time rugby had a World Cup in Australia (2003) they went after NRL players (Mat Rogers, Wendell Sailor and Lote Tuqiri).

“It will happen again but Joseph is under contract until the end of next season.

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Joseph Suaalii is on Rugby Australia’s hit list. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Nick Politis wants Suaalii to be a Rooster for life. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“We’ll have a chat next year about a long-term deal.”

Politis has rarely lost a player he wants to keep in more than 40 years he has been at the Roosters. Outside of rugby union, there will also be interest from NRL rivals.

“I see Joseph as being a lifetime Rooster,” Politis said.

“He loves being here, he’s very humble and he fits nicely into our culture.”

Suaalii has made such a huge impression on the Roosters’ right wing that he now appears likely to make Mal Meninga’s Kangaroos squad for the World Cup at the end of the season.

With Blues winger Daniel Tupou and Brian To’o committing to the Pacific nations, Suaalii has every chance of getting an actual starting position in the big tour games.