Powerhouse Queensland prop Taniela Tupou is poised to reject abroad gives to re-sign with Rugby Australia to offer him the very best likelihood of enjoying in opposition to the British and Irish Lions in 2025.
Tupou’s RA and Reds contract expires on the finish of the yr, and he’s positive to be tempted by profitable gives from golf equipment overseas.
However, he desires to tackle the Lions after they tour Australia in 2025.
“I haven’t played against the Lions, so I want to tick that off, and for that to happen, obviously I need to be injury free and be in Australia,” the 26-year-old front-rower mentioned.
“Hopefully the Reds are keen to have me here for the next few years. I’d love to stay back here in Australia, but we’ll see what happens.”
For now Tupou is targeted on recovering from the ruptured Achilles tendon he suffered whereas enjoying for the Wallabies in opposition to Ireland in November final yr in time to be thought of for Australia’s squad for the 2023 World Cup, which begins in September in France.
“I’m hoping I’m back sooner than expected but at the moment it’s going good,” he mentioned.
“I’m starting to learn how to walk again, and hopefully in a few months’ time I’ll start running and hopefully back on the field.”
Tupou was “excited” by the prospect of being mentored by lately appointed Wallabies coach Eddie Jones.
“I haven’t worked with him or done anything with Eddie before but I’ve heard a lot of good stories,” he mentioned.
“From what I know he’s a very successful coach, especially in a World Cup year.
“If I get a chance to work with him, I’ll be excited because I’m sure I’ll learn a lot off him.”
Tupou mentioned he was but to listen to from Jones, who was named as Australia’s new coach final month, changing the sacked Dave Rennie.
Source: www.news.com.au
