NZ Kiwis hooker Brandon Smith quips the lucrative code switch of Sydney Roosters teammate Joseph Suaalii won't be the silver bullet the Wallabies need.
One of the brightest talents in Australian sport, Suaalii, 19, has put pen to paper on a deal reportedly worth $1.6 million per season, leaving rugby league at the end of 2024 to join NSW Waratahs.
The signing is a huge coup for Rugby Australia and Eddie Jones, who has made no secret of his desire to lure players from league to union, but even with the Roosters on an NRL bye, Smith has been questioned about his teammate's move.
In trademark tongue-in-cheek fashion, the Kiwis star gave his thoughts on Suaalii swapping codes.
"My parents always thought rugby was really soft," Smith joked. "That $1.6 million could have been spent better on the grassroots of rugby than grabbing our beautiful young Suaalii.
"A $1.6 million winger from the Roosters isn't going to help you beat the All Blacks. I guess it's an opportunity for him to be able to look after his loved ones and his family.
"He's extremely professional, extremely humble. I just hope I get a few feeds out of it."
All jokes aside, Smith, 26, says Suaalii has the talent and ability to thrive in rugby union, adding his teammate is young enough to return to rugby league and the NRL when he wants.
"Super stoked for him. He's an amazing talent and rugby really got a gem there.
"He's only gone for three years. I think he'll be about 16 when he comes back, so he'll be able to come back to the Roosters hopefully and finish out his rugby league career.
"Go over and get that easy money, then come back to the real sport. I hope rugby likes that."
