Despite his upcoming move to Racing 92 in the Top 14, Wallabies powerhouse Taniela Tupou has thrown his hat in the ring for future selection in the Australian squad, eyeing a spot at the 2027 Rugby World Cup. This revelation comes in the wake of his pivotal role in a recent victory over the British & Irish Lions, where he demonstrated why he's Australian rugby’s top-paid forward.
Tupou’s commitment to the Wallabies remains unwavering despite his geographical distance once he starts his stint in France. "I always make myself available for the Wallabies, whether I’m in France or wherever I am," Tupou confirmed. "So if they need me, I’ll 100 per cent put my hands up."
This statement comes amidst a time when Rugby Australia has been under pressure to revamp its selection criteria for overseas-based players. The Giteau Law, which imposes restrictions on international play for expatriates, has seen some relaxation under Rugby Australia's new chief executive, Phil Waugh, although current coach Joe Schmidt has shown hesitancy in selecting too many foreign-based players.
"Hopefully this isn’t the last time. Hopefully there’s more to come."
Former Wallabies standout Quade Cooper has publicly criticized the existing policy as outdated, urging Rugby Australia to adopt a more global stance akin to the Springboks’ strategy. Tupou, after a season of fluctuating form and limited game time at the Waratahs, demonstrated his undiminished skill set in the series against the Lions, culminating in a stellar 60-minute performance that was crucial for the Wallabies' triumph.
"I’m glad I’m part of this one and part of a win against the Lions. There’s a lot of Wallabies legends who don’t get a chance to play against the Lions," said Tupou, reflecting on the significance of the occasion. The emotional weight and prestige of representing Australia at such a high level is not lost on Tupou, who was visibly moved during the national anthem.
The 'Tongan Thor' remains hopeful about his continued involvement in upcoming international fixtures, including the Rugby Championship, as he seeks to maintain his form and secure his place in future Wallabies line-ups. With his eyes set firmly on the 2027 World Cup, Tupou's journey in international rugby promises to be as compelling as ever.
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Despite his upcoming move to Racing 92 in the Top 14, Wallabies powerhouse Taniela Tupou has thrown his hat in the ring for future selection in the Australian squad, eyeing a spot at the 2027 Rugby World Cup. This revelation comes in the wake of his pivotal role in a recent victory over the British & Irish Lions, where he demonstrated why he's Australian rugby’s top-paid forward.
Tupou’s commitment to the Wallabies remains unwavering despite his geographical distance once he starts his stint in France. "I always make myself available for the Wallabies, whether I’m in France or wherever I am," Tupou confirmed. "So if they need me, I’ll 100 per cent put my hands up."
This statement comes amidst a time when Rugby Australia has been under pressure to revamp its selection criteria for overseas-based players. The Giteau Law, which imposes restrictions on international play for expatriates, has seen some relaxation under Rugby Australia's new chief executive, Phil Waugh, although current coach Joe Schmidt has shown hesitancy in selecting too many foreign-based players.
"Hopefully this isn’t the last time. Hopefully there’s more to come."
Former Wallabies standout Quade Cooper has publicly criticized the existing policy as outdated, urging Rugby Australia to adopt a more global stance akin to the Springboks’ strategy. Tupou, after a season of fluctuating form and limited game time at the Waratahs, demonstrated his undiminished skill set in the series against the Lions, culminating in a stellar 60-minute performance that was crucial for the Wallabies' triumph.
"I’m glad I’m part of this one and part of a win against the Lions. There’s a lot of Wallabies legends who don’t get a chance to play against the Lions," said Tupou, reflecting on the significance of the occasion. The emotional weight and prestige of representing Australia at such a high level is not lost on Tupou, who was visibly moved during the national anthem.
The 'Tongan Thor' remains hopeful about his continued involvement in upcoming international fixtures, including the Rugby Championship, as he seeks to maintain his form and secure his place in future Wallabies line-ups. With his eyes set firmly on the 2027 World Cup, Tupou's journey in international rugby promises to be as compelling as ever.