The Australian Wallabies are set to face a significant challenge as they take on world champions South Africa in a highly anticipated rugby match on Sunday. Prop Taniela Tupou expressed his excitement about the opportunity to test the team against the best. The Springboks recently concluded a Test series against New Zealand, winning 3-1 in a series marked by rare intensity.
The Wallabies have been on a five-match unbeaten run, with victories against Italy, Japan, and a win and a draw against Argentina. However, Tupou acknowledged that the team will be taking a big step up against South Africa. He emphasized the team's hard work and preparation, stating that they are looking forward to the challenge. The match will take place at Perth Stadium.
Tupou highlighted South Africa's strengths, particularly in set pieces and scrums, and sees this match as an opportunity for the Wallabies to assess their current level as a team. He expressed optimism about the team's direction, noting that competing against top teams is essential for their growth and competitiveness, especially with the World Cup in mind.
This match will also be significant for Tupou personally, as he will be returning to his French club Racing 92 next week and will miss October's Bledisloe Cup Tests against New Zealand. However, he hopes to return to the Test arena in the Nations Championship in November. Tupou expressed his eagerness to continue representing Australia and potentially rejoining the team in the UK.
The Wallabies have suffered a setback with loose forward Charlie Cale's shoulder injury, which will require surgery and likely keep him out for the rest of the season. Assistant coach Tom Donnelly expressed disappointment at the loss of Cale, who had been performing well in the team.
In response to Cale's injury, Nick Champion de Crespigny was called up to the squad. Donnelly noted that Champion de Crespigny is a similar player to Cale, with strong aerial skills and physicality. The Wallabies squad for the match includes a mix of experienced and young players, with Harry Wilson as captain.
The Wallabies squad includes Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Josh Canham, Tom Hooper, Isaac Kailea, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Billy Pollard, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Lachlan Shaw, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson and Backs: Jock Campbell, Ben Donaldson, Isaac Henry, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Ryan Lonergan, Tate McDermott, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Declan Meredith, Hunter Paisami, Jordan Petaia, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Kalani Thomas, Tom Wright.
Key points
- The Wallabies will be without Charlie Cale for the rest of the season due to a shoulder injury.
