Even in His Absence, Taniela Tupou’s Impact Will Inspire the Wallabies Against South Africa

A grieving Taniela Tupou will serve as an inspiration to the Wallabies on Saturday against South Africa.

Wallabies skipper Allan Alaalatoa has paid tribute to fellow prop Taniela Tupou, who despite not playing in Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash against South Africa following the death of his father has remained part of the Australian camp this week in Brisbane.
The power of Tupou will be sorely missed against the Springboks at a sold-out Suncorp Stadium.

However, Tupou’s commitment to the Wallabies’ cause is set to inspire Alaalatoa and his team in their bid to upset the reigning world champions.

“It’s obviously really sad about what he’s going through, but he’s still here with us at the moment, and he’s contributed massively throughout the whole week, ” Alaalatoa said on Friday.

“It’s a testament to him as a person and how much he loves this team and to represent his country.

“For him to still be here, to be himself and to add value is massive. We’re definitely thinking of him and his family and all that they’re going through at the moment.”

The Wallabies are chasing a fourth successive win under new coach Joe Schmidt, having last month beaten Georgia and Wales twice.

“Internally, the boys have so much respect for Joe (and) the experience that he has and the way that he carries himself around the group. The boys have really gotten around him,” Alaalatoa said.

“We all know the rugby IQ and the knowledge that our coaching staff has. Being part of that as players, we’re grateful to be a part of a group that has that knowledge on-board so we can continue to learn.