Wallabies star ready to bounce back after forgetful Rugby World Cup campaign
After a forgetful Rugby World Cup campaign in France with the Wallabies and several injury setbacks over the last two years, Taniela Tupou is determined to rebuild his career at the Melbourne Rebels.
Australia was knocked out of the global showpiece at the pool phase for the first time in the tournament’s history and the tighthead prop managed to play just one game – against Georgia in the Wallabies’ tournament opener – before suffering a hamstring injury.
Struggled with injuries in 2022
That was the latest injury setback for the Wallabies star, who was at a crossroads in his career when he ruptured his Achilles tendon last year.
“It was a tough few months but it’s all done now,” the former Reds front-row told AAP on Thursday. “I’m back to work now and I’ve got a new goal and that’s to perform for the Rebels.
“The World Cup hurts, but that’s behind me now. It’s time to look forward.”
The 27-year-old has put his injury woes behind him and is looking forward to a fresh challenge with the Rebels in Super Rugby in 2024. The man known as the ‘Tongan Thor’ returned to action for the Barbarians against Wales in Cardiff last month and is easing himself into pre-season training with the Rebels.
Tupou is taking a cautious approach to the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific campaign and doesn’t want to get ahead of himself before the 2024 season.
“I just want to be on the field to start with,” said Tupou.
“The last few years I’ve been unlucky with injuries and the strength and conditioning staff here (at the Rebels) have done a great job with managing that.
“For me to reach the next level with my game… I know the fitter I am, the better I’ll be on the field.”
Keen to bring out the best in Tupou
Rebels head coach Kevin Foote is looking forward to having Tupou in his side and revealed another element which is crucial to his star recruit’s success for the team.
“Happiness. What we know about Taniela is if he’s happy, he plays pretty well,” Foote said.
“Understanding what he values, making sure that him and his family are well looked after in Melbourne and he’s got a smile on his face.
“If he’s smiling, we’ll go well.”
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