Former Wallabies captain Will Genia believes Australia should focus on power and physical presence in midfield. And he would love to see Samu Kerevi paired with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii as a dominant centre combination at next year’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
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In Genia’s view, the modern game has shifted in a way that rewards size, strength, and explosive ability, making players like Kerevi incredibly valuable. Kerevi has been performing strongly in Japan’s Rugby League One competition with the D-Rocks.
Continuing to show the strength and skill that made him one of Australia’s most dangerous midfield players in recent years. He has already played in two previous Rugby World Cups, but he has not worn the Wallabies jersey since Australia’s commanding 52–20 victory over Wales during the 2024 spring tour.
Despite that absence, Genia believes the 32-year-old still has plenty to offer. And could play a major role for Australia when the country hosts the tournament in 2027. According to Genia, a midfield partnership between Kerevi.
And Suaalii would be extremely excited because of the combination of attributes they bring. Both players offer impressive physical size, powerful running ability, and high-level skills. Genia said that having Kerevi playing at inside centre (12).
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Rugby World Cup: Suaalii at 13 Could Complete Powerful Midfield Combo
And Suaalii at outside centre (13) would give Australia a midfield that blends strength, speed, finesse, and creativity. He believes such a pairing would be capable of overwhelming opposition defenses and creating scoring opportunities.
Genia explained that the evolution of Test rugby has made physicality even more important than before. He noted that the time the ball remains in play has decreased compared to previous eras, resulting in shorter, sharper bursts of action.
This shift has favored bigger and stronger athletes who can dominate collisions and impose themselves physically on the game. In his opinion, teams that can win those physical battles usually gain the upper hand and control the flow of the match.
Drawing from his own experience as part of Australia’s successful World Cup squads, finishing third in 2011. And reaching the final in 2015, Genia said it is no coincidence that teams like South Africa and France currently rank among the best in the world.
He pointed out that both sides rely heavily on physical dominance and their ability to win contact situations. By overpowering opponents and maintaining pressure, these teams are able to dictate the tempo and stay on top throughout matches. Genia believes Australia could adopt a similar approach by building a backline filled with powerful players.
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Rugby World Cup Final: Powerful Backline Could Give Wallabies the Edge
He highlighted not only Kerevi and Suaalii, but also winger Mark Nawaqanitawase, as examples of athletes who bring both size and athleticism. A backline featuring players of that physical stature, he said, would give the Wallabies an edge and make them far more difficult for opponents to handle. He described the idea of such a lineup as exciting and something fans would enjoy watching.
However, Genia also stressed that if Kerevi hopes to return to the national team setup. He should consider coming back to Australia to play Super Rugby and complete a full pre-season. While he acknowledged that Japanese rugby is competitive and of high quality.
He believes Super Rugby provides a level of intensity that is unmatched. Playing regularly in that demanding environment, he said, would help Kerevi rebuild the match fitness and physical sharpness needed to succeed at the international level.
Genia emphasized that consistent exposure to tough competition is essential before heading into a Rugby World Cup. The physical demands and pace of Test rugby leave little room for mistakes, so players need to be fully prepared both mentally and physically.
In addition to discussing midfield options, Genia also shared his thoughts on the Wallabies’ halfback position. He backed New South Wales Waratahs veteran Jake Gordon to remain Australia’s first-choice number nine heading into the World Cup.
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