NSW coach Michael Maguire’s wild take on Joseph Suaalii selection

Rugby-bound Joseph Suaalii was one of the most contentious selections in Michael Maguire’s NSW squad for Origin 1.

NSW coach Michael Maguire has come up with a wild justification for his decision to pick Joseph Suaalii to make his State of Origin debut.

The Roosters centre announced way back in March 2023 his plan to switch to rugby union at the conclusion of the 2024 NRL season.

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Still a teenager at the time and one of the most sought-after and highly-rated youngsters in rugby league, Suaalii’s deal is reportedly in the vicinity of $6 million and takes him through the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

The decision led many to want a black line put across Suaalii’s name when it came to representative honours during his final two years in the 13-man code.

Maguire ignored that talk, however, and has picked the now 20-year-old to partner the Bulldogs' Stephen Crichton in the starting centres for the Blues.

Maguire was asked about the decision on NRL 360 and provided a head-scratching comment about Suaalii’s feelings towards rugby league.

Michael Maguire and Joseph Suaalii in his first NSW jersey. Photos: News Corp/Supplied

The youngster (left) has been in good form for the Roosters. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

“Another debutant in this game, Joey Suaalii, I know you’ve known him for a long time,” journalist Brent Read began in an exchange you can see in the video player above.

“But there were some people that didn’t think he should be eligible for selection, including one bloke at this table.”

That was a reference to veteran scribe Phil “Buzz” Rothfield, who had spoken strongly against Suaalii’s possible selection and shot back: “Sorry for having an opinion Brent. He’s going to rugby union.”

Read then continued: “What’s the thought process there Madge with Joey.”

Maguire replied: “I’ve known Joey since he was 13 and I know his dreams.

“I tried to sign Joey as a young kid coming through so you get to know your people.

“And Joey is as passionate about rugby league as any of us.

“I guess I’m living in the now and he’s been performing really well for his club and he deserves everything he gets.

“In time he’ll move on to that part of what he’s doing in his life, but I know Joey’s going to be sensational for us.”

Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt will welcome Suaalii to rugby union in October. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images for Rugby Australia)

Maguire made a series of major calls for his inaugural squad, including dropping stalwart James Tedesco for Dylan Edwards, naming Jake Trbojevic captain and picking Nicho Hynes as his starting halfback despite his injury cloud.

He has also named forwards Isaah Yeo, Spencer Leniu, Haumole Olakau’atu and Hudson Young on the bench and Maguire was quizzed on any cover he may need if the team suffers injuries to the outside backs.

Selwyn Cobbo, who can play wing or centre, and hooker Harry Grant are among the players on the Maroons’ bench.

Maguire stressed he has options at his disposal.

“I’ve got cover there, I’m not going to give up my secrets,” Maguire replied.

“I’ve definitely got cover there and I’m fortunate I know a few coaches that have been able to put their players defending in the centres and doing a bit of work there.

”So I’m really confident with how we can go about things.”

Game 1 of the 2024 Origin series kicks off at Sydney’s Accor Stadium on Wednesday, June 5 before the series shifts to Melbourne and Brisbane.