'I don't know why anyone's shocked': Suaalii's switch planned years ago

Souths coach Jason Demetriou says Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has been planning his code hop for years but cast doubt on Cam Murray following the Rooster to rugby.

South Sydney coach Jason Demetriou believes Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’s move to rugby union has been inevitable for three years, but scoffed at suggestions his captain Cameron Murray could be next to hop codes.

A Souths junior during Demetriou’s time as an assistant coach at the club, Suaalii last week signed a three-year contract with Rugby Australia worth an estimated $1.6 million per year from 2025.

The move has sparked much interest, with suggestions other NRL players with rugby backgrounds could be lured across to the 15-man code.

Murray, Kalyn Ponga, Will Penisini and Tolu Koula are among those with a schoolboy rugby background similar to Suaalii’s, with Wallabies coach Eddie Jones having previously identified the Souths skipper as a target worth pursuing.

Demetriou said he has had no discussions with Murray, contracted through 2025, about his future aspirations and was unfazed by ongoing speculation.

“It’s that far down the line – he’s contracted here for another three years. It’s not something I’ve even contemplated,” Demetriou said.

Demetriou warned against comparing Murray, a South Sydney stalwart, with the 19-year-old Suaalii – a player he says always had designs on a career in rugby.

“Suaalii’s been going to union for three years,” Demetriou said.

“Anybody who’s had a conversation with him knows that’s been part of his plan. I don’t know why anyone’s shocked.

“As for anybody else, I create an environment where people want to play for South Sydney. If that changes, then that’s up to them.

“It’s not something I worry about, or even think about.”

Ahead of Friday’s game against Melbourne, Demetriou welcomed Mario Fenech to training at Redfern Oval, the Rabbitohs legend addressing the playing group after the session.

After a week in which South Sydney farewelled club legend John Sattler, Demetriou said it was important to continue honouring former players.

“Mario’s given us some good advice. Stay disciplined otherwise you’re on death row, he reckons. It’s always good to see him,” Demetriou said.

“It’s what we do well as a club, recognise the past and really respect it.”

The Rabbitohs have endured a testing opening month of the season on and off the field, with a tough draw, a run of injuries in the forward pack and Sattler’s death.

Demetriou said his side had been galvanised by the emotional rollercoaster.

“We’re battle-hardened,” he said. “We’ve had some really tough games and we were able to hang in there.

“Every game we’ve come back strongest at the back end of the game.
“We’ll take a lot of confidence out of that.”