“He had 10 touches against the Reds and less against Fiji. We had some opportunities to play against Fiji and we didn’t take them. So it’s not just on Joseph, it’s around others around him as well. We understand we have an attacking threat there that we want to use.
“Because of who he is, everyone expects him to make half a dozen line breaks and score three or four tries. That’s probably not going to happen. But the core foundation of his game is in really good shape now. He’s not the only back to have been a little bit short on possession in one game. That’s the challenge moving forward.”
Asked if Suaalii playing No.13 at the Wallabies was a factor in keeping him there, McKellar said he was in constant dialogue with national coach Joe Schmidt and was prepared to do what was best for the Wallabies.
“I’m not going to be pig-headed about that, but there hasn’t been that conversation,” he said. “It’s around what’s best for the individual. At the moment, he’s playing 13 and we’ve got to coach him hard. He’s been in the game 12 months.”
In other changes, Folau Faingaa has returned from a concussion and will start at hooker, with Ethan Dobbins rotated out. Leafi Talataina has also been named to start at No.6, with Clem Halaholo back on the bench. Sid Harvey could make a Super Rugby debut from the bench.
Loading
The Waratahs haven’t beaten the Hurricanes since 2015, losing eight straight games against the Kiwis. Last year McKellar’s Tahs were flying at 4-1 and had just beaten the Brumbies when they were thumped 57-12 in Wellington.
“They’re a good side, there’s no denying that,” McKellar said. “And like any good team, you’ve got to perform well and front up physically.
“And that’s a challenge that I think we’re ready for. The reality is they’re dangerous off turnover ball and counter-attack. So you need to kick well and you need to make sure that you reduce their opportunity from turnover.”
