Darcy Swain Seizes Opportunity for Wallabies Redemption Following Red Mist Misstep

Quinn Tupaea and Darcy Swain have emerged from a challenging period.

In a remarkable turn of events, both players have been summoned back from their international hiatus, having seen their budding Test careers halted prematurely in 2022.

Tupaea was named on Monday in New Zealand’s squad for the upcoming three-Test series against France, marking his return to the All Blacks after a lengthy absence following a serious knee injury inflicted by Swain’s reckless cleanout at the MCG.

The incident was somewhat overshadowed by a dramatic finish in Melbourne, where referee Mathieu Raynal shocked the rugby world by penalising Bernard Foley for time-wasting, leading to New Zealand’s Jordie Barrett scoring the decisive try.

Swain, a lock for the Wallabies, received a six-week ban, while Tupaea was left to tackle the lengthy rehabilitation of a ruptured MCL and partially torn ACL.

“Dealing with my injury when it first occurred was incredibly challenging, both mentally and physically as I went through rehab,” the 26-year-old centre shared with New Zealand media.

“Returning to play was a challenge, as I found it difficult to regain my form. The first year was particularly tough as I struggled for both playtime and confidence in my knee,” he reflected.

“This year, however, my body feels as it should, and I’ve maintained my fitness and strength, which has helped rebuild my confidence through strong performances for the Chiefs. I’m currently in a great place and am very thankful.”

Tupaea mentioned that he hadn’t had a chance to talk to Swain since the incident.

NEW PODCAST! The British and Irish Lions are greeted with enthusiasm on their arrival in Perth, while the Wallabies kick off their preparations in Sydney

“It’s been a long journey, approaching three years now, but I’ve moved past it. I understand he faced significant criticism for it, and I’m just looking to move on now,” he said.

Last year, Swain revealed to ESPN that he had reached out to Tupaea on WhatsApp to express his regret. “I sent him a message saying I know it’s trivial, but I truly regret my actions, and I’m sorry. However, that’s between us; if he chooses not to engage, I respect that,” he relayed.

Earlier in 2022, Swain received a red card for headbutting England’s Jonny Hill at Perth’s Optus Stadium.

This Saturday, he will return to that very venue, playing for the Western Force against the British and Irish Lions.

“It’s not exactly a pleasant memory, and I’ve tried to move on from it. The past is behind me, and I’ve progressed,” the 27-year-old commented to reporters this week.

“Over the last three years, I’ve been developing as a player. I won’t dwell on it on Saturday night; it’s purely about the upcoming game.”

Swain’s last Test appearance was during the historic defeat to Italy in 2022, which ultimately contributed to coach Dave Rennie’s departure.

Due to being overlooked by Eddie Jones in 2023 and Joe Schmidt in 2024, he enjoyed a successful Super Rugby Pacific season.

Swain will join the Wallabies after the match to prepare for the July 6 Test against Fiji in Newcastle.

“I’ve had tremendous support from people over the past two years, which has significantly helped me stay motivated,” Swain remarked.

“I always had faith in my ability to return, and now it’s about working hard to secure my spot in the 23-man squad. The backing I’ve received has been invaluable, and I’ve always felt that my return was just a matter of time. I’m incredibly thankful to all those who have believed in me.”