Wallabies back Joseph Suaalii says he will be fully fit to take on the British & Irish Lions in July and August, after recovering from a broken jaw that sidelined him for a month.
The high-profile code-hopper from rugby league has endured a stop-start debut season in Super Rugby Pacific, with injuries limiting his time on the field. But speaking after a promotional event at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo on Wednesday, Suaalii said he’s on track for the Lions tour.
“My face was really big for a bit, I had to wear a face mask everywhere,” he said. “But I’ll be fully fit. I had a toe injury, then my jaw and a concussion as well—but it’s all part of the game. It’s an important time for me and for Australian rugby, so I want to be out there.”
Suaalii underwent surgery three weeks ago and is already regaining weight after losing nearly five kilograms due to eating difficulties during recovery. “I’ve been eating heaps—thanks to my mum and family for keeping me on track,” he said.
The injury was caused accidentally by the knee of teammate Andrew Kellaway, who joked: “Nobody wants to crash the Ferrari. He looks alright—he’s talking plenty, so that’s a good sign.”
Despite limited game time, Suaalii believes he’s ready to perform at the highest level, and says he’s comfortable playing fullback, wing, or centre. He also has his eye on Australia’s July 6 warm-up Test against Fiji in Newcastle.
“These are the biggest games of my life,” Suaalii said of the Lions series. “Some players only get one chance—this happens every 12 years. I can’t wait.”
