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Angus Bell Endorses Taniela Tupou for Key Role in Wallabies’ Campaign
by Athena Grace | SYDNEY – 2025/06/12 02:20:02
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt adn his staff have been conducting train-on sessions, recently in perth, with plans to move to Queensland next week as thay prepare for upcoming matches.
The size of the groups has made it difficult to discern Schmidt’s specific intentions regarding team selection for the Fiji Test on July 6 and the subsequent Lions series.
Schmidt is expected to announce a 40-man squad following the Brumbies‘ Super Rugby campaign, with their semi-final match against the Chiefs in Hamilton scheduled for Saturday.
Angus Bell, Tupou’s NSW and wallabies teammate, is confident that Tupou will not only be included in the squad but will also play a important role in the series.
Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou became close while coming back from injury ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.Credit: Getty
Bell’s Confidence in Tupou’s Abilities
“I think (Reds’ lock) Lukhan (Salakaia-Loto) said it a couple of weeks ago – we certainly know how vital Taniela is for Australian rugby. If we’re going to compete and beat the Lions, Taniela will be in and around the team and squad,” Bell said.
“He’s a freak of nature and we all know that. We know how important he is, and what he can do in his career best form.”
Bell and Tupou developed a close friendship while recovering from long-term injuries in 2023. They would travel between Sydney and Brisbane to train together during their rehabilitation.
