Wallabies Seek Greater Joseph Suaalii Involvement Second Lions Test Melbourne

Len Ikitau, the Australian Wallabies centre, is determined to involve his partner Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii more early in the second Test against the British & Irish Lions to help level the series after their 27-19 loss in the opener. Suaalii, a recent rugby league convert who impressed on his test debut, was limited in the first Test due to the Lions' rush defense and Ikitau acknowledged he could have done better at getting the ball to him. Both players are learning to understand each other's preferred positions and plan to be more proactive in hunting the ball rather than waiting on the edge, with Suaalii encouraged to roam beyond traditional rugby league boundaries. Despite calls for Suaalii to be moved to an outside back position, Ikitau emphasized Suaalii's versatility and athleticism, affirming his ability to perform well anywhere on the field. Ikitau also feels responsible for supporting younger teammates like flyhalf Tom Lynagh as the Wallabies seek to improve their attacking options. The pair are preparing for potentially wet conditions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, planning strategies to maximize Suaalii's impact and capitalize on scoring opportunities.