Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii's Super Rugby Season Ends with Jaw Surgery

The Waratahs fullback faces a minimum four-week recovery, casting doubt on his availability for the Wallabies' British & Irish Lions series in July.

Rugby Union - Autumn Internationals - Scotland v Australia - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, Scotland, Britain - November 24, 2024  Australia's Joseph Suaalii arrives before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne/File Photo
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Scans confirmed Suaalii suffered a small, undisplaced jaw fracture following a concussion during the Waratahs' match against the Queensland Reds last Friday.
  • The 21-year-old will undergo surgery to reinforce the fracture, sidelining him for at least four weeks and ending his Super Rugby season.
  • Suaalii's recovery timeline will be reassessed post-surgery, leaving his readiness for the Wallabies' July Test matches uncertain.
  • Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt emphasized the importance of Suaalii gaining match fitness, noting his limited playing time this season due to injuries.
  • The injury highlights challenges in Australia's depth as they prepare for the highly anticipated British & Irish Lions series starting July 19.