Wallabies member Angus Bell has defended his decision to select league convert Joseph Sua’ali’i for the upcoming tour of England after critics labeled the former Roosters’ inclusion a “disgrace”.
Sua’ali’i, who signed a whopping three-year contract with Rugby Australia earlier this year, has been included in Joe Schmidt’s squad for Australia’s upcoming Grand Slam tour of England, a decision that has not been without criticism.
News Corps David Riccio described the decision to quickly include Sua’ali’i in the Wallabies team as a ‘disgrace’, while Bell described it as “making fun of people trying to grab headlines”.
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Suaalii considered Folau an inspiration | 01:21
“We don’t hear that, and the proof is in the pudding,” Bell added.
“As soon as he walks on the field, you’ll see how cheap that jersey is.
“He’s a crazy athlete. Look at the way he moves, the way he touches his feet, the way he can kick. He has all the qualities to be a world-class rugby player, not just in Australia but probably one of the best rugby players in the world.”
Bell, who has played 32 times for Australia since making his debut in 2020 and was a member of the Wallabies’ failed 2023 World Cup squad, added: “I’m looking forward to proving the (Suaali’i) people wrong.”
According to the 24-year-old, the former Rooster’s transition to rugby, a sport he excelled at as a schoolboy, is going smoothly and his professionalism is drawing huge praise.
‘Quick learner’ Suaalii impresses coaches | 00:48
Sua’ali’i’s union term could be extended by up to five years, with recent reports suggesting his initial three-year contract with Rugby Australia includes an option for a two-year extension.
The one-time NSW representative could earn $9 million over five years if he switches to the union if he opts for that extension, significantly more than he earned in the NRL.
He is not the only former Rooster to ply his trade in the Union League, with Joey Manu signing a contract from Japan Rugby which could open the door to playing for the All Blacks.
