Suaalii ruled out of rematch as injury woes continue
The Wallabies have suffered a big blow before their rematch with Japan in Townsville on Saturday, with marquee man Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii ruled out.
The injury-prone outside centre picked up what the Wallabies described as a “minor hamstring strain” in the 35-32 win over the Brave Blossoms in Osaka.
Isaac Henry and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii celebrate a tough win. Getty Images
Suaalii finished the match on the wing, leading to renewed calls for him to switch to the back three on a permanent basis.
Josh Flook has been called into the squad as cover.
The Wallabies are already without their other first-choice centre, Len Ikitau, who is recovering from an ankle injury.
Hunter Paisami started at No.12 last weekend and is now likely to be joined in the starting midfield by Queensland Reds teammate Isaac Henry, who made his Wallabies debut in Osaka.
“He’s good. I spoke to him just before he left,” Paisami said of Suaalii.
“He’s just keen to go get that hammy sorted, and then he’ll be back in no time… what he’s done in the 13 jersey is special.”
Filipo Daugunu and Flook are the other options at Les Kiss’ disposal.
He will name his team on Thursday and nine.com.au understands there will be widespread changes.
Kiss is also without suspended lock Miles Amatosero, with Jeremy Williams and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto ready-made replacements.
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