Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is one of seven debutants set to feature in the Waratahs' Super Rugby Pacific season opener this Friday.
The Waratahs will kick off their season at Sydney's Allianz Stadium in Moore Park, facing the Highlanders.
Before making an impressive Wallabies debut on last year's Spring Tour, Suaalii played for the NRL's Sydney Roosters.
The 21-year-old fullback will take the Super Rugby field for the first time alongside fellow debutants Taniela Tupou, Rob Leota, Siosifa Amone, Ben Grant, Jamie Adamson, and Darby Lancaster.
This year's Waratahs squad looks to be the most competitive in years, boasting twelve Wallabies, including Max Jorgensen, Jake Gordon, Angus Bell, and Andrew Kellaway.
It also marks Dan McKellar's first season as head coach, with the former Brumbies boss having led them to a Super Rugby title in 2020.
โI spoke to the players about the fact we've got seven debutants [in the side], a head coach on debut, as well as a number of assistant coaches and staff,โ McKellar said in a statement.
โIt was so competitive. We've got all but three players available for selection.โ
โIt's off the back of training performance and trial performance. There's been tough decisions to leave out quality young men who are good rugby players.โ
The season opener between the Crusaders and Hurricanes will kick off at 5:05pm AEDT on Friday, followed by the Waratahs vs Highlanders at 7:35pm.
