This feels like a massive moment for Australian rugby. Code hopper Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii will play his first pro game of rugby as starting outside centre for the Wallabies after being named to face England at Twickenham on Sunday (AEDT).
The $5.35 million recruit from Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League, has been named for his debut alongside Len Ikitau, as was exclusively revealed by The Roar early on Thursday.
The 21-year-old last played a game of rugby 1864 days ago during the Australian Schoolboys’ upset over New Zealand Schools. He only started training with the Wallabies 27 days ago.
Coach Joe Schmidt all but ruled out the prospects of him featuring against England when he named the squad on October 22 – but Suaalii has clearly impressed the coach – and Schmidt has taken a big, brave gamble with this decision.
His new teammates have also spoken glowingly, but for all their praise it is still an extraordinary story.
“You’ve seen him play Origin, you’ve seen him play in the top level of rugby league, and even though it’s a different game, the translation of how he competes is there. Physically, he’s there. He’s ready,” said Samu Kerevi, who has missed out on the 23.
Kerevi, who has worn the No.12 jersey at the past two World Cups, has played just once since May – but he could have added some security off the bench.
Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson and Max Jorgensen are the backs selected on the bench.
Will Skelton, the other overseas-based star in the Wallabies squad, has also missed out on the 23.
Suaalii has drawn comparisons with his early mentor Israel Folau, and Australian rugby fans will be hoping he has a similar impact.
“Even as a 21 year old, he reminds you, in bits and pieces, of Izzy,” said Kerevi. “From when I played with Izzy in Japan, I’ve spoken to Izzy about him a lot, and they’re close as well.
“I know he’s keen to get his hands on a Test jersey and he backs himself, which is what you want.
“His attention to detail is really good, because he wants to learn the game more, know his role really well and execute it, especially under Test lights. He’s been hitting me with questions all week … I’m excited for him.”
Suaalii, and Schmidt’s decision to overlook Kerevi and Skelton aside, there are no real shocks in the team to face an England outfit that lost narrowly to New Zealand last weekend, and has retained the same team.
Joseph Suaalii poses during an Australia Wallabies Portrait Session on October 28, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)
Suaalii is the only change to the starting XV from the Wallabies’ most recent Test against New Zealand in Wellington with Angus Bell, Matt Faessler and Taniela Tupou making up the front row.
There are 14 players in the matchday 23 who will play at Twickenham for the first time, including second row pairing of Nick Frost and Jeremy Williams who start together for the fourth consecutive Test.
The backrow sees 2024 John Eales Medallist, Rob Valetini start at blindside flanker, with Fraser McReight on the openside and captain Harry Wilson at the back of the scrum.
Jake Gordon and Noah Lolesio will partner in the halves for the sixth time this season as the men in gold kick off their first Grand Slam opportunity since 2016.
Dylan Pietsch retains his spot on the left edge after making his starting debut in Wellington, with Andrew Kellaway named on the right wing and Tom Wright at fullback.
Hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa and props James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa make up an experienced replacement front row.
Lukhan Salakaia-Loto comes off the bench with Langi Gleeson.
Schmidt said in statement: “The side has adjusted well to the travel and have had a couple of trainings up here to prepare for what will be a very tough challenge on Saturday.
“Playing in front of vocal home crowds in some of the most renowned Rugby stadiums in the world is an exciting prospect, with many of the players on their first Spring Tour.”
Wallabies team to play England at Allianz Stadium in London on Saturday November 9, 2:10am AEDT (Sunday)
1. Angus Bell (33 Tests)
2. Matt Faessler (12 Tests)
3. Taniela Tupou (56 Tests)
4. Nick Frost (21 Tests)
5. Jeremy Williams (8 Tests)
6. Rob Valetini (48 Tests)
7. Fraser McReight (22 Tests)
8. Harry Wilson (c) (19 Tests)
9. Jake Gordon (27 Tests)
10. Noah Lolesio (26 Tests)
11. Dylan Pietsch (4 Tests)
12. Len Ikitau (35 Tests)
13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (debut)
14. Andrew Kellaway (35 Tests)
15. Tom Wright (33 Tests)
Replacements
16. Brandon Paenga-Amosa (16 Tests)
17. James Slipper (140 Tests)
18. Allan Alaalatoa (76 Tests)
19. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (37 Tests)
20. Langi Gleeson (9 Tests)
21. Tate McDermott (37 Tests)
22. Ben Donaldson (13 Tests)
23. Max Jorgensen (3 Tests)
