Suaalii, Sensitive Loss for the Wallabies and Waratahs
The Wallabies team has suffered a hard blow in their preparation for the expected series against the British & Irish Lions. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, one of the key figures, will be out of the Super Rugby fields due to a jaw fracture.
Suaalii, who was taken off the field in the first half of the match between the Waratahs and the Crusaders, was initially thought to have only suffered a concussion.
However, the tests revealed a fractured jaw, which could sideline him for the rest of the season.
“Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii suffered a concussion last Friday in the NSW Waratahs versus Queensland Reds match, which was managed by the match day medical team.
Waratahs
Suaalii is expected to require a minor operation to reinforce the affected area, which would involve a recovery period of at least four weeks before being re-evaluated.
With the Waratahs fighting to secure a playoff spot, Suaalii’s absence represents a significant challenge.
Waratahs coach Dan McKellar expressed his regret over Suaalii’s injury and wished him a speedy recovery.
This is the second time this season that Suaalii has been forced to sit out due to injury, having already missed three games with a foot injury.
Despite having time to recover before the Wallabies’ match against Fiji on July 6, the news of his absence will not be well received by coach Joe Schmidt.
Schmidt had emphasized the importance of Suaalii continuing to play and gain experience on the field.
In Friday’s match against the Crusaders, Andrew Kellaway is expected to fill in for Suaalii.
