Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii backs wing switch as Wallabies face midfield reshuffle

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii believes his move to the wing will improve his all-round game, although Australia’s injury problems could take him back into midfield against New Zealand.

The 23-year-old has started the Wallabies’ past two Tests out wide, including Saturday’s 50-19 defeat at Eden Park.

However, Len Ikitau and Jordan Petaia are unavailable for the Sydney rematch, while Hunter Paisami is suspended, leaving coach Les Kiss with decisions to make in the centres.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii sees value in wing role

Speaking on Tuesday, Suaalii said experiencing different positions was helping his development following his switch from rugby league.

“Seeing the game from a different perspective helps me be a better centre, a better fullback, a better 12,” he told Rugby Australia.

Despite starting successive matches on the wing, Suaalii finished both in midfield following injuries to Ikitau.

His position for Saturday’s second Bledisloe Cup Test remains unconfirmed.

Injuries leave Australia short in the centres

As covered in Dave.Sport’s Wallabies injury update, Ikitau and Petaia have been ruled out, with Corey Toole and Kadin Pritchard added to the squad.

Ikitau is recovering from concussion, while Petaia has an ankle injury. Paisami’s suspension further limits Kiss’s midfield options.

Australia are also seeking a response after New Zealand’s emphatic victory ended their hopes of reclaiming the Bledisloe Cup.

Reuters reported that the All Blacks retained the trophy for a 24th consecutive year, with the defeat Australia’s first under Kiss.

Suaalii said the players had reviewed the performance honestly but retained confidence in their progress, pointing to results earlier in the campaign.