LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Joseph Suaalii deal with Rugby Australia could be in jeopardy after reports emerged that he assured Roosters officials he would return to the club after his contract expires.
This news comes amid the ousting of Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan, who was dismissed following a late-night board meeting.
The dismissal of McLennan led to World Cup-winning Wallaby Daniel Herbert being named as his replacement.
The $5 million contract with RA for Suaalii may be in doubt after Roosters chairman Nick Politis revealed that the young star had promised to return to the club in 2028.
Rugby powerbrokers are reportedly having second thoughts about Suaalii's hefty salary and where the funds would come from.
RA CEO Phil Waugh has recently stated that big-money raids on the NRL will be a thing of the past, emphasizing the need for financial responsibility and focusing on developing talent within the sport.
Politis claims that Suaalii has already given assurances of his return to the Roosters, and the club is reportedly interested in other Wallabies players, potentially in response to the Suaalii situation.