The rugby world is abuzz with the potential signing of Joseph Suaalii to a professional rugby union deal. Suaalii, an 18-year-old Australian, has been touted as a potential superstar in the sport and his potential signing has been met with much anticipation. However, Australian Rugby Union (ARU) chief executive Rob Jones has remained noncommittal on the matter, citing the need for further investigation into Suaalii’s eligibility.
Suaalii has been playing rugby since he was just seven years old and has already represented Australia at the Under-20s level. He has also been named in the Australian Schoolboys team for the past two years and is widely considered to be one of the most promising young talents in the sport.
Despite his impressive credentials, Jones has stated that the ARU will not rush into any decision regarding Suaalii’s potential signing. He has cited the need for further investigation into Suaalii’s eligibility to play professional rugby union in Australia. This includes looking into whether he meets the necessary criteria to be eligible for a professional contract, such as having played at least three years of schoolboy rugby.
Jones has also stated that the ARU will need to consider the long-term implications of signing Suaalii. This includes whether he is ready to make the transition from schoolboy rugby to professional rugby union and if he is able to handle the pressure that comes with being a professional athlete.
At this stage, it appears that Jones is taking a cautious approach to Suaalii’s potential signing. He has stated that the ARU will need to conduct a thorough investigation into Suaalii’s eligibility before making any decision. Until then, Jones remains noncommittal on the matter and it is unclear when or if Suaalii will be signed to a professional rugby union deal.
