The drift reversal capability of trapped particles has beeninvestigated in quasi-axisymmetric (QA) configurations for theconfinement improvement as has been experimentally demonstrated inother axisymmetric configurations. The properties of J (secondadiabatic invariance), its profile and maximum-J capability are examinedfor this purpose. Due to the non-axisymmetric nature of themagnetic field strength, a region of local maximum of J is created tocause the drift reversal. This region can be controlled radially andalso toroidally with the introduction of symmetric breaking componentsof B, externally. The increase of magnetic shear in finite betaequilibria also has a favourable effect on the drift reversal. Thus,maximum-J capability and its external controllability are demonstratedfor QA stellarators, by which the impact of magnetic configuration onturbulent transport can be studied.