Joe Schmidt able to pick new Wallabies superstar for showdown with Ireland at Aviva Stadium

Australia have unearthed a potential world-class star for the sport in Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and, after fears he would be ruled out, the 21-year-old is selected for the final Autumn Series clash with Ireland in Dublin

By: irishmirror.ie

Nov 28 2024
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Joe Schmidt able to pick new W

Australia's new superstar in the making Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has been passed fit to face Ireland in Saturday's clash at the Aviva Stadium (3.10pm).

Suaalii, 21, has only made three Test appearances for the Wallabies since moving to the Union code from Rugby League but he has been a sensation for Joe Schmidt's side in the November window.

The dynamic centre, who is so dangerous in the air, suffered an arm injury in last weekend's defeat to Scotland but initial fears that he could be out for the long term have proved to be wide of the mark.

Schmidt is expecting another tough outing on his return to Dublin against an experienced Ireland outfit. “It’s been a challenging year where we have grown a bit as a squad, and we have an opportunity to challenge ourselves again against what is a settled and cohesive Ireland team," said the Kiwi, who spent a decade coaching in Dublin with Leinster and then Ireland.

“It’s going to be a big occasion at the Aviva with the 150th anniversary celebrations so I hope those in attendance get to enjoy a really good spectacle.”

Schmidt has made six changes with just a six day turnaround from the Scotland game. There is only one change in the backs, with Max Jorgensen starting on the left wing ahead of Harry Potter.

Both props are changed, with James Slipper and Taniela Tupou coming in. With Nick Skelton returning to La Rochelle, there is a change out in the second row with Nick Frost and Jeremy Williams pairing up - the latter having recovered from the illness which ruled him out at Murrayfield.

Fraser McReight also returns to the starting line-up at opensider flanker.

AUSTRALIA TEAM V IRELAND

1. James Slipper (142 Tests) – Bond Pirates

2. Brandon Paenga-Amosa (19 Tests) – Southern Districts

3. Taniela Tupou (57 Tests) – Brothers Rugby

4. Nick Frost (24 Tests) – Hornsby Lions

5. Jeremy Williams (9 Tests) – Wahroonga Tigers

6. Rob Valetini (51 Tests) – Harlequin Junior Rugby Club

7. Fraser McReight (24 Tests) – Albany Creek Brumbies

8. Harry Wilson (c) (21 Tests) – Gunnedah Red Devils

9. Jake Gordon (28 Tests) – Canterbury Juniors

10. Noah Lolesio (28 Tests) – Tuggeranong Vikings