As the Wallabies gear up to kick off their Rugby Championship run with a double-header in South Africa, the legendary Stirling Mortlock has tossed in his two cents: Joseph Suaalii should test his mettle on the wing. With games poised to unfold at Ellis Park and Cape Town Stadium this August, Mortlock’s strategy could be the twist Australia needs to spice up their game plan.
Suaalii, who’s been holding fort at outside centre since his switch from rugby league, played there against the British & Irish Lions recently. However, Mortlock, who’s no stranger to the rigours of international rugby, believes a stint on the wing could be just what the young player needs to evolve into a top-tier No 13. “He’s not going to like this, but when I first came through I had two full seasons on the wing and I hated it. But it gave me a great opportunity to understand what wingers need from a 13,” Mortlock shared with AAP.
“You don’t lose much if you put him on the wing, and you get his aerial skills. He’s unbelievable with the high ball and cross-kicks. Long term, he’s got all the attributes to be an amazing 13.”
Mortlock didn’t just stop at player positions; he had some advice for coach Joe Schmidt too. The former Wallaby is calling for an end to the frequent lineup changes, emphasizing the importance of stability and familiarity. “Nothing beats time in the saddle. Playing together, going through hard times together, and learning as a group builds the trust you need at the DNA of a world-class team,” he advised, stressing that forming solid player combinations requires at least “five to 10 Tests together, minimum.”
Mortlock’s preference clearly leans towards a team that has weathered storms together. “I’d always take a battle-hardened team that’s a little bruised over a fresh team with less combinations.” It seems for Mortlock and perhaps for the Wallabies, the recipe for success could well include a blend of seasoned grit and strategic tweaks, starting with Suaalii’s potential new role on the wing.