Australia Coach Kiss Wants Suaalii at Outside Center for Wallabies

Australia's rugby union coach, Les Kiss, has affirmed his intention to deploy Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii primarily at outside center for the upcoming two-test series against Argentina. Despite growing competition for midfield places, Kiss plans to maintain Suaalii in the No. 13 jersey.

Suaalii, a dual-code international, is nearing a return from a hamstring strain that saw him miss the recent match against Japan. In his absence, Isaac Henry impressed at outside center, forming a partnership with Hunter Paisami. The return to fitness of Len Ikitau further intensifies the competition for midfield roles, providing Kiss with multiple options.

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No. The intention from the start has been to keep him at outside centre, and that remains the preferred position for now.

While Suaalii has prior experience playing on the wing and at fullback for the New South Wales Waratahs, Kiss dismissed speculation about shifting him to the backline. "No. The intention from the start has been to keep him at outside centre, and that remains the preferred position for now," Kiss told reporters. He acknowledged the need for flexibility in the back five, where players are encouraged to develop proficiency in multiple positions to enhance the team's adaptability.

Kiss also highlighted his willingness to experiment with new strategies, referencing the effective "poaching" tactic employed in the back row during the second half against Japan. This involved deploying two fetchers, Fraser McReight and Carlo Tizzano, a move that drew comparisons to the successful "Pooper" combination of David Pocock and Michael Hooper in 2015. While acknowledging the tactic's effectiveness, Kiss indicated it was not a permanent fixture, stating that coaches are exploring other back-row combinations to leverage the team's power.

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However, the back five need flexibility. Players are being asked what other positions they can productively fill, allowing the team to broaden its selection options and deal with different situations.