If anyone is likely to motivate Taniela Tupou to showcase his full potential this season, it’s Allan Alaalatoa.
The two tighthead props for the Wallabies may be vying for the coveted gold No.3 jersey, yet they share a strong friendship and much in common.
Tupou, aged 29, has represented Australia in 58 Tests, while Alaalatoa, at 31, ranks as the second most seasoned player in Joe Schmidt’s squad, boasting 80 caps.
Allan Alaalatoa poses during a Wallabies visit to Stanmore Public School. Getty
Both players have endured the distress of an Achilles tendon rupture, which is one of the most serious injuries a rugby player can suffer.
This type of injury can be particularly devastating for a tighthead, whose primary responsibility is to secure scrums, placing immense strain on that area.
“For me personally, it definitely took some time,” Alaalatoa, who missed the 2023 Rugby World Cup due to his injury, shared with Wide World of Sports.
Allan Alaalatoa of the Wallabies leaves the field injured. Getty
“You go through the entire rehab process and perform all the physical tests, and everything seems fine. But it’s those mental challenges when you’re back in a scrum and playing under fatigue that can hit hard.
“Each match brings different scenarios, presenting similar situations to those that caused the original injury.”
Alaalatoa was taken off the field at the MCG after he tore his tendon during a scrum incident against the All Blacks.
NEW PODCAST! Michael Hooper shares his thoughts ahead of Joe Schmidt’s first squad announcement and the contenders for Wallabies captaincy.
Now in the form of his life after an outstanding season with the ACT Brumbies, Alaalatoa is expected to start against the Lions.
“There are numerous mental hurdles to overcome, and it’s crucial to trust not only your support team but also yourself, knowing you’ve done all you can to be in the best position for performance,” he elaborated.
“It is a contact sport, and every time you lace up your boots, there’s a risk that something could happen. Once you recognise this is beyond your control, you can start playing freely.”
Tupou suffered his Achilles rupture against Ireland in Dublin towards the end of 2022.
He has not fully recaptured his dominant form since then and has candidly discussed facing a confidence crisis during his season with the NSW Waratahs.
Taniela Tupou of Australia is taken from the pitch to receive medical attention. Getty
Test prop Angus Bell commented last week that the Wallabies would need Tupou firing on all cylinders to stand a chance against the Lions, a sentiment echoed by Alaalatoa.
“We all recognise the impact he has when he’s at his peak, but more importantly, when he’s in good spirits,” Alaalatoa remarked to WWOS.
“The coaching staff has faith in him, and there’s mutual confidence that they can help him return to top form.
“However, as his close friend, it’s also part of our responsibility to ensure he enjoys the environment, feels happy, and we can support him in reaching his best preparation, hopefully translating that into game performance. I’d love to see big Nella back at his peak because I know he can make a significant impact for the team.”
The Wallabies are set to gather in Sydney on Sunday ahead of their July 6 clash with Fiji in Newcastle.
Coach Schmidt admitted he is uncertain about Tupou’s readiness for the intensity of a Lions series.
“I wish I had a clear answer to that,” he stated to WWOS.
“Readiness is something you can only gauge after spending a week or so with the players. We’re under a very tight deadline.
“With Fiji coming up in two weeks, things will progress rapidly. We’ll aim to determine Taniela’s mindset once he’s in camp. I’ve had some fruitful discussions with Nella in the past week, and we’re confident he’s keen to be a part of it.”
Taniela Tupou of the Waratahs celebrates scoring his team’s third try. Getty
“He is eager to be there and is keen to perform well.
“That’s a solid foundation to build on.”
The Lions will kick off their tour against Argentina in Dublin on Saturday (AEST) before heading to Perth for their match against the Western Force on June 28.
WALLABIES SQUAD
Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Nick Frost, Langi Gleeson, Tom Hooper, Fraser McReight, Zane Nonggorr, Billy Pollard, David Porecki, Tom Robertson, Will Skelton, James Slipper, Darcy Swain, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson
Backs: Filipo Daugunu, Ben Donaldson, Jake Gordon, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Noah Lolesio, Tom Lynagh, Tate McDermott, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Corey Toole, Nic White, Tom Wright
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
