Rugby-Suaalii to debut for Waratahs at fullback in Super Rugby opener

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - Autumn Internationals - Wales v Australia - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, Britain - November 17, 2024 Wales' Eddie James in action with Australia's Joseph Suaalii Action Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs/File Photo

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Joseph Suaalii will make his Super Rugby Pacific debut at fullback on Friday after being named in the New South Waratahs side for their season-opening clash against the Otago Highlanders at Sydney Football Stadium.

The high-profile recruit from rugby league received rave reviews when he made his debut in the centres for the Wallabies last November but new Waratahs coach Dan McKellar has decided to put the 21-year-old in the number 15 shirt.