In an exciting development for Australian rugby, the highly anticipated league convert Joseph Sua’ali’i has been named in the Wallabies squad for their upcoming end-of-season tour of the UK and Ireland. The 21-year-old sensation is one of three uncapped players selected by head coach Joe Schmidt in his 34-man list.
Sua’ali’i Set to Shine on Big Stage
Sua’ali’i, who recently bid farewell to the NRL’s Sydney Roosters to pursue his Wallabies ambitions, has been training with the national setup and appears poised to make his mark in the green and gold. The versatile back, equally adept at centre or wing, could have been sent to gain experience with the Australia XV side, but Schmidt has instead backed him for a baptism of fire against European heavyweights.
Sua’ali’i is an immense talent with the potential to be a game-changer at test level. His inclusion shows the Wallabies are willing to blood exciting new prospects.
– A source close to the Wallabies setup
Veterans Recalled as Debutants Named
Joining Sua’ali’i as potential debutants are flyhalf Tane Edmed, honing his craft in New Zealand’s provincial competition, and versatile English-born utility back Harry Potter. But there are also some familiar faces returning to the fold.
Lock Will Skelton, who captained Australia at last year’s World Cup, is back for his first international involvement in 2024. The imposing La Rochelle star missed the July tests and Rugby Championship due to club commitments but signaled his availability for the tour. Powerful midfielder Samu Kerevi is another big name set for a test return after missing the season so far.
Notable Omissions from Schmidt’s Squad
While there are several eye-catching inclusions, some established names have missed the cut. Two-time John Eales Medalist Marika Koroibete was a surprise exclusion from the outside backs. Promising flyhalf Tom Lynagh will have to bide his time in the Australia XV squad, while forwards Rob Leota and Liam Wright are sidelined by injury.
Grueling Schedule Awaits in Europe
The Wallabies kick off their tour against old foes England at Twickenham on November 9. From there, it’s off to Cardiff, Edinburgh and Dublin on successive weekends for a full grand slam attempt. Achieving results in the north has often proved elusive for Australia, but there is a sense this group may have the firepower to meet the challenge head-on.
We have a relatively consistent group but will integrate a few new players on tour. It’s about balancing opportunities while broadening our player cohort in highly competitive fixtures.
– Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt
Fringe Players to Push Claims in Australia XV
For those who didn’t quite make the Wallabies grade this time, the two-match Australia XV tour shapes as a gilt-edged chance to press for higher honors. Matches against the Bristol Bears and England A will provide a platform for emerging talent to shine.
As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on how Sua’ali’i and the new-look Wallabies fare against the might of the north. If they can harness their potential, Australian rugby could be in for a stirring finale to 2024.
Full Wallabies Squad for UK and Ireland Tour
- Forwards: Matt Faessler, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson, James Slipper, Allan Alaalatoa, Taniela Tupou, Angus Bell, Isaac Kailea, Will Skelton, Nick Frost, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, Carlo Tizzano, Sere Uru, Jeremy Williams, Langi Gleeson, Harry Wilson.
- Backs: Nic White, Jake Gordon, Tate McDermott, Noah Lolesio, Tane Edmed, Ben Donaldson, Samu Kerevi, Joseph Sua’ali’i, Hunter Paisami, Len Ikitau, Harry Potter, Tom Wright, Andrew Kellaway, Max Jorgensen, Dylan Pietsch.
