Relief as ‘game changer’ Takes the Spotlight at Super Rugby Pacific Season Launch

Sighs of relief echoed throughout the Prince Henry Centre.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is ready to go for the Super Rugby Pacific season opener on Valentine’s Day.

“I experienced a bit of a setback last week, but I’m feeling good now,” Suaalii shared with Nine’s Today during the competition launch in Sydney’s Little Bay on Wednesday.

“We’ve got training today, so I’m back into that and preparing for next Friday. All systems are good.”

After impressing the rugby community with the Wallabies last year, Suaalii is yet to make his debut for the Waratahs.

He was scheduled to play fullback against the Brumbies in Bowral on Saturday but pulled out just before the match to rest a knee concern.

This multi-million dollar NRL acquisition is a prized asset and, along with Beauden Barrett, was the focus of attention for journalists from both sides of the Tasman.

“He transformed the game for the Wallabies during last year’s northern tour,” remarked Barrett, a two-time world player of the year.

“As a rugby enthusiast, it was fantastic to see him make the switch from league and excel in the game – we’ve all taken note in New Zealand of the talent he possesses with the ball. It’s a major boost for the sport and this competition.”

“With the Rebels no longer in the mix, the other Aussie teams have substantially strengthened with players moving to different clubs,” Barrett added, representing the defending champion Blues.

“The Waratahs are looking quite robust at this moment, but it’s going to be a challenging competition, and we’re eager to dive in.”

The Waratahs will start their season against the Highlanders at Allianz Stadium on February 14.