Mal Meninga has given his first serious indication that Joseph Suaalii will be wearing the green and gold for Australia at the World Cup, saying: “There are no questions he’ll handle the international scene.”
Suaalii scored a try on Thursday night in another impressive performance as the Sydney Roosters continued their late-season charge towards the finals.
Suaalii, 19, who is in his first full season in the top flight, was close to making his NSW Origin debut this year and is now in even better form.
Suaalii needs to decide if he wants to represent Australia and play alongside a few of his Roosters teammates, including James Tedesco. Samoa also has appeal, because of the ties through his father, Chris, and the chance to wear the No.1 jersey.
Suaalii has made it known that fullback is his favourite position, but he will not play there for the Roosters – or NSW or Australia – due to the presence of Tedesco.
Joseph Suaalii is right in the mix to play for the Kangaroos.Credit:Getty Images
One thing Meninga will not do is try and sell the green-and-gold dream to potential players. He has stated several times in recent months that he “is only interested in players who want to represent the Kangaroos” and won’t chase anyone.
“I’m a fan of Joseph, absolutely, and he is right in the picture, particularly if the Roosters keep their run going to the finals,” Meninga told The Sun-Herald.
“He is a genuine selection option, definitely. He’s just a talent. He always has been a talent. I like his courage. I remember ‘Izzy’ [Israel Folau] came in at a young age, so did ‘GI’ [Greg Inglis], so if you’re talking about age, there are no questions about Joseph handling the international stage.