Australia’s preparations for their two-Test Bledisloe Cup series against New Zealand have been disrupted after centre Hunter Paisami was suspended for four matches following a dangerous tackle against South Africa.
The 28-year-old was cited for his challenge on Springbok replacement flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu during the Wallabies’ thrilling 42-38 victory in Perth last Sunday.
Paisami was one of four Australian players shown yellow cards during a frantic final 11 minutes that saw the home side reduced to just 11 players as they held on for a famous win over the world champions.
Disciplinary panel cuts Paisami’s suspension
Paisami initially received a six-week suspension after appearing before a disciplinary committee.
However, the punishment was reduced by two weeks after the panel took into account his disciplinary record, his conduct during the hearing and the remorse he demonstrated over the incident.
The resulting four-match ban means Paisami will miss both of Australia’s upcoming Bledisloe Cup encounters with the All Blacks.
The suspension represents a significant setback for coach Les Kiss, who acknowledged that he was unhappy with the length of the ban.
“I’ll be careful what I say because I might be fined,” Kiss said.
“But four weeks, I thought it could have been a little bit less than that, for sure.”
Wallabies forced to rethink midfield
Kiss accepted that Australia must now adapt to Paisami’s absence, particularly with two crucial matches against New Zealand approaching.
“However, it’s what it is, and we’ll deal with the reality of it,” the coach said.
“We’ve got two Bledisloe games and some other games that we can put that [suspension] into play, but ultimately, he’s out, and we’ll have to deal with that.”
The timing of the suspension is particularly problematic because Paisami’s Reds teammate Len Ikitau is also dealing with an injury concern.
Several options emerge for Australia
The Wallabies now have several decisions to make as they assess their midfield options for the Bledisloe Cup.
Isaac Henry has already been brought into consideration by Kiss, while Jordan Petaia could be given an opportunity to return to the midfield.
Joseph Suaalii and Filipo Daugunu are additional possibilities as Australia attempt to maintain the attacking threat that helped them overcome the Springboks.
Suaalii started on the wing against South Africa and produced an impressive performance during the dramatic four-point victory.
Bledisloe Cup preparations begin
Despite the disappointment surrounding Paisami’s suspension, Australia will head into the Bledisloe Cup with renewed confidence after ending South Africa’s hopes of completing a memorable victory in Perth.
The Wallabies must now find a way to replace one of their regular midfielders while carrying the momentum generated by their dramatic triumph.
With Paisami unavailable for both clashes, Kiss faces an immediate selection challenge as Australia prepare to test themselves against the All Blacks.
