Here is the rugby news article with Markdown formatting applied:
BBC Rugby Union: Sua’ali’i Sent Off in Tumultuous Origin Debut
Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i, the highly anticipated rugby union recruit, found his State of Origin debut for the New South Wales Blues marred by controversy after being sent off in the opening clash against the Queensland Maroons.
The incident occurred just eight minutes into the match at Accor Stadium, as Sua’ali’i delivered a heavy tackle on Maroons fullback Reece Walsh, who was in the process of falling into the challenge. Referee Ashley Klein deemed the tackle reckless, resulting in Sua’ali’i becoming the sixth player in history to be dismissed from a State of Origin fixture.
“The tackle was on the line, given Walsh’s positioning,” acknowledged Blues coach Michael Maguire.
With the Blues reduced to 12 men for the remainder of the contest, the Maroons seized control and ran out convincing 38-10 winners, thanks in part to a hat-trick from former union schoolboy star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.
The fallout from Sua’ali’i’s red card continues, as the future Wallaby faces a suspension that could rule him out of the entire Origin series. Rugby Australia’s prized signing has been charged with a grade two reckless tackle and is staring at a potential lengthy ban.
Teammate Spencer Leniu expressed support for the young center, noting his commitment to the jersey. Broncos prop Payne Haas, a teammate of Walsh, echoed similar sentiments, sympathizing with Sua’ali’i’s predicament.
However, the incident also drew the ire of Queensland assistant coach Nate Myles, who was caught on camera verbally berating Sua’ali’i as he walked off the field. According to The Daily Telegraph, Myles shouted “enjoy your f***ing debut” three times at the dejected Blues player before being warned by an NRL official.
The early send-off and impending suspension have cast a cloud over Sua’ali’i’s highly anticipated rugby union transition, leaving the talented youngster facing an uphill battle to make amends and secure his place in the Origin arena.
đź”— Source
