NRL makes stunning verdict on Joseph Suaalii to play immediately

The NRL has torn up its own rule book to make a special verdict on teen sensation Joseph Suaalii that clears him for take off.

Sydney Roosters new signing Joseph Suaalii. Picture: Roosters Digital

Roosters teen freak Joseph Suaalii has been cleared to play by the NRL and is free to make his NRL debut as early as the Roosters’ Round 2 clash.

The 17-year-old was given the news on Monday that the NRL has torn up its own rule book to allow the special talent to make his senior debut before the age of 18.

Suaalii has already been likened to Greg Inglis, such is his size, speed and strength.

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The schoolboy rugby sensation — who last year officially chose league over a rich offer from Rugby Australia — impressed everyone while training with the Rabbitohs’ first grade squad last pre-season and it has long been a question of when, not if, he would graduate to the NRL.

He was the most sought-after talent in Australian sport last year before the Roosters wrestled him away from the Rabbitohs, despite having signed a contract with the Redfern club.

JHoseph Suaalii has impressed for North Sydney.

NRL regulations stipulate a player must be 18 before making their first grade debut, but Suaalii has been treated as a special case by the NRL as a result of his generational talent.

It was reported Monday an exhaustive NRL investigation ruled the teenager was physically and mentally ready for the dramatic step up to play in the NRL, despite still committing to finishing his Year 12 schoolwork at The Kings School in western Sydney.

According to reports, The ARLC commission made the decision during a scheduled meeting on Monday.

Suaalii was spotted over the weekend speaking with ARLC chairman Peter V’landys.

The decision means Suaalii is able to play in the NRl this weekend when the Roosters face the Tigers on Sunday.

He has been playing at centre for the Roosters’ reserve-grade side, North Sydney Bears, in the NSW Cup.

He is expected to force his way into the Roosters starting 17 in just a few weeks’ time.