Is Joseph Suaalii, the star of the Waratahs, being underutilized? Here's a deep dive into the debate.
The Statistics Speak
According to World Rugby, Suaalii made 0.04 carries per minute, the lowest of any Waratahs player. This, coupled with his struggles to exert influence, has sparked questions about his role and potential underutilization.
The Apprentice's Journey
Suaalii, only 22, has played 27 professional rugby games. While he's made strides, his rugby CV is still growing. His position as a fullback, where he played six games, might be his strongest, but the Waratahs' center depth is limited.
Competition and Strategy
The Waratahs face competition at fullback and wing, with players like Harry Potter, Andrew Kellaway, and Triston Reilly. Suaalii's natural position is outside center, where he excels with Len Ikitau. However, his gameplan with the Waratahs is evolving after a grueling international season under Joe Schmidt.
The Art of the Decoy
Suaalii's eight decoy runs against the Drua forced defenders into a guessing game. His presence creates chaos in open space, making him a key attacking threat. However, his handling error against Max Jorgensen highlights the need for improvement.
Space Constraints
Waratahs attacking coach Mike Catt acknowledges the challenge of creating space for Suaalii. His size and willingness to take carries are assets, but overuse can limit his diverse skill set. Against the Drua, his teammates often opted for other options, highlighting the need for better space creation.
The Role of the Outside Center
The outside center's role is complex. While distributing and leading defense are crucial, the opportunity to run with the ball can be rare. Suaalii's defense has improved, and he didn't miss a tackle against the Drua.
Managing Expectations
Waratahs coach Dan McKellar emphasizes the need to manage expectations. Fans and media often expect spectacular plays, but Suaalii's role is multifaceted. His marked presence demands attention, and opposing coaches will strategize accordingly.
The Learning Curve
Suaalii's journey continues as he learns the nuances of rugby. The scrutiny will intensify as the Hurricanes visit Sydney, but his development is a process. The Waratahs must navigate his potential while managing expectations.
