Joseph Suaalii will miss the rest of the Waratahs’ Super Rugby Pacific season and is uncertain for the upcoming British and Irish Lions series due to a fractured jaw. The injury occurred during a match against the Reds, where he was knocked out and subsequently stretchered off. Scans confirmed the fracture, necessitating surgery, which will sideline him for at least four weeks, complicating his potential return for the Wallabies in July.
Waratahs head coach Dan McKellar expressed concern for Suaalii, emphasizing the team’s commitment to support his recovery in collaboration with Rugby Australia. The operation will take place soon, and medical staff will assess his readiness for play after that period. Fortunately, the Lions Tests, which begin on July 19, offer a bit more time for Suaalii to recover, compared to the usual mid-year series schedule.
Suaalii, who joined the Waratahs from rugby league, has been a vital addition to Australian rugby, making his Test debut against England despite no prior professional rugby experience. He had a promising start to his international career, appearing in multiple matches during the November tour. Although he made a strong impact, the Waratahs are currently in a tough position, facing three consecutive losses following an early-season victory over the Chiefs, jeopardizing their playoff aspirations.
As the Waratahs look to regroup amidst their struggles and with the uncertainty surrounding Suaalii’s recovery, the focus will be on maximizing his rehabilitation to ensure his participation in the much-anticipated Tests against the British and Irish Lions.
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