‘Increased Standards: Suaalii’s Setback Presents Waratahs with a Positive Dilemma’

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’s knee injury has dealt a significant blow to Dan McKellar’s plans for the Waratahs as they gear up for their Super Rugby season opener against the Highlanders on February 14.

Suaalii was set to start at fullback for NSW’s trial match against the Brumbies in Bowral on Saturday, where McKellar appeared to unveil his strongest lineup at Eridge Park. However, the highly anticipated recruit was unexpectedly ruled out due to a knee issue.

This development opened up the opportunity for fellow Wallabies star Max Jorgensen to move from the wing into the No.15 jersey, where he delivered an impressive performance in a thrilling 36-all draw before 4,000 spectators.

“It’s just a minor issue. He has pulled up a little bit sore,” McKellar commented regarding Suaalii.

“Given it’s a trial game, we decided it was best for him to stay at home, ice it, and focus on rest, recovery, and physio treatment. We’re hoping he will be fit to train on Wednesday. He was aware that it wasn’t worth the risk, so you have to keep the larger picture in mind.”

However, NSW’s acting performance director, Andrew Cleverley, acknowledged that Suaalii’s injury may lead to a reconsideration of his playing position for round one.

“Fifteen is certainly my preferred spot,” Jorgensen shared with Wide World of Sports prior to the trial match.

“But I’m ready to contribute in whichever way is best for the team—wing, fullback, on the bench—whatever it takes. I’m eager to be part of this journey, and we’ll see where that leads me.”

During last year’s Spring Tour, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt deployed Suaalii in the centres and Jorgensen on the wing.

However, McKellar has stated he won’t let external influences dictate his decisions regarding player positions.

“We’ll assess how he (Suaalii) progresses in training and finalise his position over the next couple of weeks,” McKellar noted.

This year’s wooden spoon recipients are now brimming with options in the backline.

Wallabies star Andrew Kellaway was positioned on the right wing in Bowral, while fellow Rebels recruit Darby Lancaster received the call-up to start on the left.

“We’re experimenting with new positions in training, helping the boys to bond well. Wherever we play, it really doesn’t matter,” Jorgensen said.

The Waratahs parted ways with Darren Coleman following a dismal 2024 season, and McKellar has moved quickly to establish a new rhythm.

“Dan’s been outstanding. The standards are noticeably higher now,” Jorgensen remarked about the former Brumbies coach.

“We have a completely new group of players and coaching staff, which brings excitement. We have the potential to be a very strong team, but that’s just on paper; we need to put in the hard work as we prepare for round one.”

Jorgensen has also been spending ample time absorbing lessons from the new Waratahs attack coach, Mike Catt.

Catt, who played 75 Tests for England, famously came off the bench in the memorable 2003 Rugby World Cup final.

He has carved out a strong coaching career but will be forever remembered for his struggle against Jonah Lomu during Lomu’s four-try onslaught in the 1995 World Cup semi-final.

This took place ten years prior to Jorgensen’s birth.

“It was well before my time—more in my Dad’s era,” he joked, referring to his father, former Wallabies winger Peter.

“But I’ve definitely seen clips of him and heard countless stories about his playing days. He was a remarkable talent, and we’re fortunate to have him at the Waratahs.”

“He brings a wealth of experience, and I’m learning a great deal from him.”

Both Jorgensen and Catt share tales of achievements at Twickenham.

Yet, the 20-year-old insists he didn’t spend his summer holidays, partially in Thailand, rewatching his dramatic match-winning try against England.

“But it’s the kind of moment you dream about as a kid,” the 20-year-old reflected.

“It’s not just about the try itself, but also the joy of sharing the victory with your mates both on and off the field, in the stands and in the change rooms.”

“That’s what sticks with me—the pure happiness of clinching a win like that. It was a back-and-forth competition, and the camaraderie with teammates post-match was unforgettable. There’s simply no feeling that compares to it.”