Wallabies boss Joe Schmidt certainly has plenty to smile about after his team’s spring tour of Europe, even if Australia failed to clinch a Grand Slam.
Despite producing one of the most dramatic last-gasp victories in rugby against England at Twickenham, Australia lost to Ireland and Scotland.
Facing his former team, Schmidt watched as Australia fought valiantly to take Ireland the distance in Dublin, but fell just short of victory, suffering a 22-19 defeat.
All eyes will now be on next year’s Lions tour of Australia and there is plenty for the hosts to be sure of having seemingly responded to their criticism over the past four months.
Following their disappointing World Cup exit last year under Eddie Jones, questions were raised about the Aussies, but with a spring in their step, they have played brilliantly during their spring tour.
This weekend’s result at the Aviva Stadium, losing by three points to European giants Ireland, demonstrated the progress they have made.
Joseph Sua’ali’i has enjoyed a good start to his rugby career, having recently jumped into the NRL code.
Joe Schmidt’s Australian team has impressed during its spring tour of Europe, despite not winning the Grand Slam.
Australia is playing an exciting brand of rugby. Under Schmidt, they are not afraid to throw the ball, but can combine it with brilliant play through their forwards.
One player who has shone throughout the series is union newcomer Joseph Sua’ali’i, who was a doubt for this weekend’s game against Ireland after injuring his arm against Scotland.
Doubts had persisted over the former Roosters star’s credentials ahead of the spring tour, considering the NRL convert, who joined Rugby Australia in a $5 million deal earlier this year, had never he had previously played a bonding game professionally.
His debut at Twickenham Stadium had been described as a baptism of fire, but in the midst of the maelstrom of the Rugby Union Test match, Sua’ali’i dazzled in what was a sensational debut.
And he has earned plaudits from former Australian center Matt Giteau, who praised 21-year-old Sua’ali’i for his work rate.
“He’s not always perfect like everyone else and he’s still growing in our game, but what nobody really talks about is J Suaalii’s effort and work rate,” Giteau said.
“He’s totally compromised and his areas of effort aren’t talked about enough… He’s phenomenally talented, but his areas of effort are just as valuable.”
Sua’ali’i is a versatile and astute player in both attack and defense.
Sua’ali’i was swept into the maelstrom of international rugby and, despite his limited experience, has excelled for Australia.
Wallabies legend Matt Giteau took to social media to praise Sua’ali’i, stating his effort and work rate were excellent.
Even his teammates were amazed by his extraordinary skills, with winger Andrew Kellaway praising his teammate.
“I don’t know if throwing someone in the deep end is the best way, but it’s certainly worked out pretty well for us,” said an admiring Andrew Kellaway.
“We are very happy to have him. The first part about Joe is that he is incredible, so professional!
“He’s 21 years old and the kid is focused, studying the game, stretching, rehabbing, recovering; he’s a professional, and he’s certainly rubbed off on a lot of our guys.
“You’ve certainly seen a lot more guys starting to do that sort of thing, which is really cool, and I think it’s a big pat on the back for him. “He’s come right in, made a difference and added value.
“Then you walk on the field and the guy is a weirdo, right? There are a lot of shades of Israel (Folau) there.
“We’re very happy to have him. I don’t know how he found this tour. I think he enjoyed it, I hope so, but he’s fitted in well with the group.
“He’s a great guy. Very, very funny. He’s certainly integrated into our team and we feel like we’re close with him now.”
Giteau won 103 caps for Australia and also said next year’s Lions Tour will be a ‘cracker’
Incoming Lions boss Andy Farrell also praised Sua’ali’i, stating he “loved watching him play” while the NRL convert was at the Roosters.
And former rugby league convert Andy Farrell, who will lead the Lions next summer on their tour of Australia, said he had been keeping a close eye on the inside centre.
“As a rugby league player he was incredible. I loved watching him play, especially in State of Origins etc.,” Farrell said.
“When he feels comfortable and doesn’t have to think too much, because that’s where he’ll be right now since it’s hard to transfer from the league, his skill set will be there for all of us to see.
“He’s a confident kid and he’s an athlete too, so he’s certainly a good addition to rugby, a good thing for all of us to see.”