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Joseph Suaalii's Omission from Game 3 NSW State of Origin Squad
I’d like to see what others have to say about this and provide some input.
Joseph Suaalii, who made his debut in Game 1, was unfortunately sent off in the seventh minute after a brutal hit on Reece Walsh, resulting in a four-game suspension. Despite this setback, Madge expressed his intention to support Suaalii, even bringing him in to assist with preparations for Game 2.
Given these circumstances, it is perplexing that Suaalii was not considered for Game 3. Technically, he was available for selection by the time side was announced on Sunday evening, and while I understand concerns about match fitness and conditioning due to his missed games, it is worth noting that a left-side centre position needed to be filled. Suaalii regularly plays left centre for the Roosters, making him a logical and fitting choice for this role. This selection could have served as an opportunity for redemption after his unfortunate debut.
Furthermore, although this is an irrelevant point, considering Suaalii will not be part of the NRL next year, and Madge (NSW) do not have obligations towards him, players like Best, Turbo, and Matt Burton and the odds on favourite to be picked "if fit" Latrell will undoubtedly have opportunities in the future to line up again for the Blues, but Suaalii's availability for this game seemed like an obvious choice over Best who is under a slight injury cloud and others. I just don't get how he was overlooked for game 3 !
Thoughts ?
Joseph Suaalii, who made his debut in Game 1, was unfortunately sent off in the seventh minute after a brutal hit on Reece Walsh, resulting in a four-game suspension. Despite this setback, Madge expressed his intention to support Suaalii, even bringing him in to assist with preparations for Game 2.
Given these circumstances, it is perplexing that Suaalii was not considered for Game 3. Technically, he was available for selection by the time side was announced on Sunday evening, and while I understand concerns about match fitness and conditioning due to his missed games, it is worth noting that a left-side centre position needed to be filled. Suaalii regularly plays left centre for the Roosters, making him a logical and fitting choice for this role. This selection could have served as an opportunity for redemption after his unfortunate debut.
Furthermore, although this is an irrelevant point, considering Suaalii will not be part of the NRL next year, and Madge (NSW) do not have obligations towards him, players like Best, Turbo, and Matt Burton and the odds on favourite to be picked "if fit" Latrell will undoubtedly have opportunities in the future to line up again for the Blues, but Suaalii's availability for this game seemed like an obvious choice over Best who is under a slight injury cloud and others. I just don't get how he was overlooked for game 3 !
Thoughts ?
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