‘Waratahs Yet to Finalise Venue for $6 Million Star Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’

The new head coach of the Waratahs, Dan McKellar, has stated that the club is still evaluating the most suitable position for Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii as he prepares for his Super Rugby debut.

Following Suaalii’s standout performance for the Wallabies during last year’s spring tour, where he excelled in the centres, the Waratahs are keeping their options flexible regarding the $6 million rugby league recruit.

When questioned about what jersey number Suaalii might wear at the club level, McKellar mentioned that the coaching team is still considering their choices.

“I’ve tried him in several positions, so nothing’s set in stone yet,” he informed 2GB’s Wide World of Sports radio.

“His versatility is a significant asset. He can play on the wing, at outside centre as he did on tour, or even at fullback. We need to determine where he will best fit within the team and how we can structure our game to ensure he gets plenty of involvement.

“The last thing I want is for Joseph to be stuck in a position or a game where the ball just isn’t coming to him.

“He poses a real threat when he has the ball and as coaches, it’s essential that we strategically ensure he’s getting those opportunities.”

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“I’m rotating him between the wing, outside centre, and fullback, and we’ll reach a decision in the coming weeks.”

While Suaalii experienced various positions during his initial stint in Test rugby, McKellar is adamant that he won’t be swayed by Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt regarding where to field the 21-year-old.

“Joe won’t dictate where he should play; it’s ultimately up to us,” he told the media during a press briefing on Tuesday.

“Both Joe and Joseph understand the advantages of training across different positions, allowing for enhanced skill development.”

The Waratahs seem to have a strong squad on paper after an active off-season, yet they are in a rebuilding phase following their last-placed finish that resulted in the dismissal of former coach Darren Coleman.

“My goal is for us to have a clear identity of who we are, what we stand for, and what truly matters,” McKellar expressed.

“In any team that I coach, I’ll certainly stress the importance of effort in areas often overlooked by spectators, which we as a group truly value.

“Ruthlessness might be a buzzword, but it’s vital for us to be a team that operates with precision. We need to understand our roles, execute them effectively, relieve pressure from ourselves, and apply it to our opponents.”

Suaalii trained as a fullback in stifling heat on Tuesday in anticipation of the Waratahs’ upcoming trial match against the Brumbies this Saturday.

McKellar has confirmed that players under Wallabies contracts will likely feature in the matches as the team looks to develop on-field combinations.

The Waratahs kick off their Super Rugby campaign against the Highlanders on Friday, February 14.