Jesse Kriel says code-swapper Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has made playing 13 “look easy”, but warns the Wallabies outside back is a threat regardless of the number on his back.
Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald in the build-up to Sunday’s one-off Test in Perth, the Springbok centre praised Suaalii’s progress since switching from rugby league.
Suaalii joined the Waratahs in 2024 before making his Test debut for Australia later that year. The 22-year-old has since established himself as a dangerous attacking option, despite limited experience in the 15-man code.
“He’s made it look easy,” Kriel said of Suaalii’s transition to rugby union.
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Kriel, who has regularly faced the former NRL player in the midfield, acknowledged that Suaalii’s physical attributes and ability to read the game have helped him adapt quickly.
“He’s a big, strong guy, he’s got a good skill set and he’s obviously got a good understanding of the game,” Kriel said.
Suaalii’s versatility could also make him difficult to contain. Although he has featured prominently at outside centre, he can operate on the wing and fullback.
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Kriel cautioned that the Boks cannot afford to focus solely on Suaalii’s position when preparing for the Wallabies.
“He’s a threat wherever he plays,” the two-time World Cup winner said.
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