'He's a unit': Wallabies confirm backline shuffle for Bok showdown in Perth
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is being backed to thrive in his new wing role as the Wallabies brace for an aerial barrage in Sunday’s clash with South Africa in Perth.
Suaalii has spent the bulk of his 24 Tests at outside centre, but will slot in at left wing against South Africa, with Tom Wright to continue at fullback and Max Jorgensen on the right wing.
The world No.1 Springboks dominated the aerial game during their recent 3-1 series win over New Zealand, and Suaalii’s shift out wide is a significant strategy to cope with the high ball.
Former Wallabies star Nick Cummins reckons Suaalii will thrive no matter what position he plays.
“He can play anywhere,” Cummins said of the former NRL star.
“He can jump, he can run, he can step, he can pass, he can kick.
“You can put that character anywhere, and he’s going to do a good job. We’re lucky to have someone like that.”
Cummins also likes what he’s seen of Jorgensen, who boasts explosive pace and has become a weapon for the Wallabies.
“He’s a unit,” Cummins said.
“You can see how he’s exploded on the scene. He’s one of those guys you can change your game plan – I reckon we just hit it up the guts and swing it wide to Jorgo to get some meat in the corner.”
Last year’s John Eales Medallist Len Ikitau will shift to outside centre, with Queensland’s Hunter Paisami named at inside centre.
Scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan will partner Ben Donaldson in the halves.
Western Force hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa and prop Allan Alaalatoa return to the starting line-up, but the rest of the forward pack remains unchanged from the team that drew with Argentina 28-28 in Mendoza earlier this month.
And with South Africa noted for their physicality and prowess at the scrum, Kiss has opted for a 6/2 split on the bench, with Billy Pollard, Aidan Ross and Taniela Tupou the substitute front row.
Scrumhalf Tate McDermott and winger Harry Potter are the only two backs on the bench, meaning there was no room for the returning Jordan Petaia, who last played for the Wallabies at the 2023 World Cup.
The Wallabies have posted three wins and a draw under Kiss, but defending World Cup champions South Africa will be their biggest test to date.
“We’ve had a solid preparation window here in Perth ahead of what’s going to be a massive Test against South Africa,” Kiss said.
“Playing against the number one team in the world focuses the mind and we have worked hard on key areas to meet this challenge and continue to grow our game.”
Australia: 15 Tom Wright, 14 Max Jorgensen, 13 Len Ikitau, 12 Hunter Paisami, 11 Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, 10 Ben Donaldson, 9 Ryan Lonergan, 8 Harry Wilson (captain), 7 Fraser McReight, 6 Rob Valetini, 5 Jeremy Williams, 4 Josh Canham, 3 Allan Alaalatoa, 2 Brandon Paenga-Amosa, 1 Angus Bell.
Replacements: 16 Billy Pollard, 17 Aidan Ross, 18 Taniela Tupou, 19 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 20 Tom Hooper, 21 Carlo Tizzano, 22 Tate McDermott, 23 Harry Potter.
Date: Sunday, September 27
Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth
Kick-off: 17.45 (11.45 SAST;09.45 GMT)
Referee: Andrea Piardi (Italy)
Assistant referees: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand), James Doleman (New Zealand)
TMO: Matteo Liperini (Italy)
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