Sore Suaalii a late scratching from pre-season game

A minor knee injury has prompted the NSW Waratahs to postpone code-hopping superstar Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’s much-anticipated club debut.

Suaalii shifted from rugby league to rugby union on a three-deal worth more than $5 million, making his debut for the Wallabies against England on last year’s spring tour.

Saturday’s pre-season trial between the Waratahs and ACT Brumbies in Bowral was set to be the excitement machine’s first game for his new club.

The ‘Tahs made a precautionary call on Saturday to leave him at home in Sydney.

NSW insist the 21-year-old would have played if it were a regular-season Super Rugby match, and he is in no doubt for their round-one home clash with the Highlanders on February 14.

“He’s pulled up a bit sore,” Waratahs acting director of performance Andrew Cleverley told reporters.

“Nothing too major, we’ve just got him on ice.

“He’s just got a niggle in his knee, pretty minor.

“He woke up this morning with a bit of discomfort … it’s not worth the risk (with a) high-profile, world-class athlete.

“This is a trial. It’s unfortunate for the people that are here, who’ve travelled and are obviously trying to watch the game in different parts of the world.

“He’ll see the physio tomorrow, we’ll keep looking after him all week and he’ll play round one.”