Powerhouse Queensland prop Taniela Tupou is poised to reject abroad gives to re-sign with Rugby Australia to present him the most effective probability of enjoying towards 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.
Nevertheless, he needs to tackle the Lions once they tour Australia in 2025.
“I haven’t performed towards the Lions, so I need to tick that off, and for that to occur, clearly I have to be damage free and be in Australia,” the 26-year-old front-rower stated.
“Hopefully the Reds are eager to have me right here for the subsequent few years. I’d love to remain again right here in Australia, however we’ll see what occurs.”
For now Tupou is concentrated on recovering from the ruptured Achilles tendon he suffered whereas enjoying for the Wallabies towards Eire 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 again prior to anticipated however in the intervening time it’s going good,” he stated.
“I’m beginning to learn to stroll once more, and hopefully in a number of months’ time I’ll begin operating and hopefully again on the sector.”
Tupou was “excited” by the prospect of being mentored by lately appointed Wallabies coach Eddie Jones.
“I haven’t labored with him or accomplished something with Eddie earlier than however I’ve heard a variety of good tales,” he stated.
“From what I do know he’s a really profitable coach, particularly in a World Cup yr.
“If I get an opportunity to work with him, I’ll be excited as a result of I’m positive I’ll study so much off him.”
Tupou stated he was but to listen to from Jones, who was named as Australia’s new coach final month, changing the sacked Dave Rennie.
