Sonny Bill Williams gives verdict on Wallabies’ 5 million dollar recruit tipped to be better than him

Colin Newboult
Recent cross-code convert Joseph Suaalii and former All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams (inset).

Recent cross-code convert Joseph Suaalii and former All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams.

Cross-code legend Sonny Bill Williams believes that Joseph Suaalii has all the qualities to be a success in rugby union.

The 21-year-old has switched from the 13-a-side game after signing a hefty three-year contract with Rugby Australia, thought to be around AUS$5.35 million.

If reports are accurate, that could rise to a staggering AUS$9 million, with a clause enabling him to extend his deal by a further two years.

It means that there is a huge expectation on the former NRL superstar to deliver, just like there was with Williams, who also went from league to union.

‘A lot of scrutiny and rightly so’

“I’ve walked that exact same path,” he told Wide World of Sports.

“A lot of hype, a lot of scrutiny and rightly so. It’s great to see a young Pacific Islander getting paid well, because there’s not enough of them, I believe.

“It’s going to take a bit of time but he’s a great player, bro. I’m going be glued to the TV and look forward to watching his journey.

“I’ve met him a couple of times. He’s a good young man, level headed, very respectful and he’s got a pretty good education behind him too.

“He’s got some good people around him and I’m an open book if he ever wants to have a yarn.”

Better than Brad Thorn and Sonny Bill Williams? Australian coach makes staggering claim about Wallabies’ new 5 million dollar recruit

Suaalii’s former coach, Matt Parish, recently made the bold claim that the youngster would be the “greatest” league to union convert, surpassing the likes of Brad Thorn, Williams, Israel Folau and Jason Robinson.

It is not just his ability that stands out to those that know him, however, but his personality, which means that he will put in the work both on and off the field.

Of course, there is huge pressure on Suaalii and that can burden even the most talented individuals, but Williams insists that the 21-year-old has the temperament to deal with whatever is thrown his way.

SBW’s advice

“From what I’ve seen it looks like he’s got it all under control,” the former All Black said.

“The best advice is simple and logical. Just take your time, shut out the outside noise and go about your business.

“Train hard, work hard, be the first in the gym, put your hand up to learn and to do extras. My understanding is that he will do all of that.

“In league, you’ve got a lot more time than you do in union so that will be one of the biggest adjustments for the brother.”

Suaalii could well be tested immediately with him likely to go on the Wallabies’ end-of-year tour. It is a risky move but one Williams very much backs for a player who is being paid millions.

“Easing him in? Bro, I think he’s good enough to just be chucked straight in the deep end. He will find his way, he’s a good enough player,” he added.

“He’s the highest paid player in Australian rugby so get him over there. The Lions are coming next year. I played for the All Blacks with no Super Rugby experience. So it’s doable.

“Some traditionalists may say he has to earn the right to do this and that. But let’s be honest, the Wallabies aren’t exactly producing at the moment.”

READ MORE: Sonny Bill Williams doubles down on Scott Robertson criticism as All Blacks great hits out at ‘incorrect statement’