“He fancies himself over the ball as well, I’ve got nothing but good things for Hunter.”
A frustrating run with injuries last season ultimately cost Paisami his place among the Wallabies’ fraternity, having played 24 Tests since his 2020 debut.
Instead, Lalakai Foketi and Izaia Perese garnered maiden World Cup call-ups alongside Petaia and Samu Kerevi, while Brumbies weapon Len Ikitau also missed selection.
Hunter Paisami has been in top flight for the Reds in 2024. Credit: Getty
But after a failed campaign change is on the horizon under new national coach Joe Schmidt ahead of the July series with Wales.
Paisami has revealed how the chance to spend the entire preseason training at inside centre, rather than being shuffled between the No.12 and No.13 jerseys, had been the catalyst behind his resurgent form, but injuries could force another move out wide.
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Petaia appears long odds to recover from a shoulder injury to take on the Blues, while Josh Flook is only an outside chance to return.
The way Paisami worked with Creighton on Friday when the former shifted to replace Petaia could be a sign of things to come, and would thrust him in a heated battle with All Blacks star Reiko Ioane next week.
Triumph there, and Schmidt may have no choice but to take serious notice.
But Reds coach Les Kiss said that would be only one of several options at his disposal, as he remained hopeful Flook could embark on a rapid recovery.
“In a typical second five situation I guess we could [play Creighton and Paisami], but we’ve got some good options there. We keep close tabs on the guys playing club rugby, we’ve got another couple of guys champing at the bit,” Kiss said.
“It [Flook’s injury] was a fairly acute injury, it’s not structural terrible that AC joint, but it was fairly sore all week.
“We’ll see how he stacks up on Monday, some part of him thought he could still play this week, but we just managed him out of it just to make sure. He’s had a big season, and he’s worked very hard and been physical.
“I’d say he’ll be close to next week, but we’ll make sure we check on Monday. The Blues are pretty hot property at the moment… bring it on, Anzac Day, it’ll be a big battle.”
