Nature’s Marvel: Taniela Tupou Poised to Overcome Anxiety and Take on the British and Irish Lions

Angus Bell, a prominent player for the Wallabies, is optimistic about teaming up with the “freak of nature” Taniela Tupou against the British and Irish Lions, despite Tupou himself expressing serious concerns about his readiness.

At 29, with 58 Test caps to his name, Tupou should ideally be at the peak of his powers as a formidable tighthead. While he is enjoying life off the field with the NSW Waratahs, his performance on the pitch has left much to be desired. In a candid interview with The Sydney Morning Herald last month, he opened up about his struggles.

Known as the ‘Tongan Thor’, Tupou lamented his chances of being picked for the Wallabies against the Lions, admitting he feels too anxious to play as freely as he once did.

“It’s sometimes a struggle. I finish a game and think, ‘goodness, do I even know how to play rugby anymore?’ It feels like I’ve lost my touch,” he said.

Despite moments of brilliance hinting at a return to form, Tupou’s recent yellow card for tripping Western Force’s Hamish Stewart raised further concerns.

Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt will reveal his squad following the conclusion of the ACT Brumbies’ season.

The Brumbies are set to clash with the Chiefs in a Super Rugby Pacific semi-final in Hamilton on Saturday.

“Taniela is crucial for Australian rugby,” Bell remarked to reporters after mingling with some actual Lions at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo.

“To stand a chance against the Lions, we need Taniela as part of the team. His skills become vital when he hits his peak performance.

“He’s diligently training with NSW and putting in the effort at camps to bounce back. We have faith in Nella; he’s more than a mate—he’s an incredible talent, and we all recognise that.

“Taniela is eager and excited about the Tests, and that enthusiasm resonates with everyone involved in Australian rugby. It’s an exciting time, and I genuinely believe he’ll be outstanding this year.”

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Brumbies’ captain Allan Alaalatoa is expected to take the tighthead prop position against the Lions in the opening Test in Brisbane on July 19.

If all goes smoothly, Tupou will likely make an impact off the bench, while Bell and veteran James Slipper will split loosehead responsibilities.

“It’s a good scenario for Joe, having numerous selection dilemmas, which is a positive for Australian rugby,” Bell noted.

“Competition has become a real strength for us, and not every position is secured, which pushes everyone to keep vying for a spot.

“Allan is a world-class player and fantastic leader; it’s impressive to see how he’s stepped up this year after recovering from an Achilles injury last season.”

“Despite having concerns about his Achilles, he has been outstanding this year, and it’s fantastic to witness.”

“James Slipper is arguably playing the best rugby of his career as well, so I see this as a positive—challenging each other only makes us better. Training against Allan in scrums will only enhance my performance.

“I’m truly pleased for him after the difficult year he had in 2023 when he missed the Rugby World Cup. I’m excited to see what he can achieve this season in the gold jersey.”