Tupou and Daugunu Join First Nations Squad for Lions Clash

Australia’s rugby landscape saw a notable shift as prop Taniela Tupou and centre/winger Filipo Daugunu were released from the Wallabies squad to join the First Nations & Pasifika XV for their upcoming match against the British & Irish Lions. This clash is set to take place in Melbourne on March 5, 2024, allowing both players another opportunity to impress selectors ahead of the series.

Coach Joe Schmidt has made the decision to prioritize Allan Alaalatoa as the starting tighthead prop for the Wallabies’ series-opener against the Lions in Brisbane on Saturday. Tom Robertson from New South Wales has been included on the bench, further solidifying the team’s lineup. This marks the second time Tupou has been released from the Wallabies, having previously missed the warm-up match against Fiji to participate in a tour match for his Super Rugby team, the New South Wales Waratahs.

Kefu Welcomes Additional Talent

Former Wallabies number eight Toutai Kefu, now head coach of the First Nations squad, expressed relief at welcoming Tupou and Daugunu into his ranks. Kefu acknowledged the strength of his team as they prepare to face a Lions side that recently dominated the Australia-New Zealand XV with a decisive 48-0 victory in Adelaide.

“We’ve got a decent squad, actually,” Kefu stated. “I’m pretty happy with my forward pack. I think our locks are world class. I’m sure they’ll have a good game and come in the reckoning for Wallabies honours.”

Kefu’s roster includes talented locks such as Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Darcy Swain, along with Seru Uru from the Queensland Reds and Mesake Vocevoce from Fijian Drua. The combination aims to provide a formidable challenge against the Lions, who remain undefeated during their Australian tour.

A Tough Challenge Ahead

Kefu, who was part of the victorious 2001 series against the Lions, has noted the steep challenge his team faces. With limited preparation time—only a few training sessions together—he recognizes the advantage held by the provincial teams that have been more cohesive.

“They’ve looked pretty good,” Kefu assessed of the Lions. “Those provincial teams have been together a lot longer than us and they struggled somewhat. It’s going to be a tough challenge.”

As the First Nations & Pasifika XV gears up for this important match, both Tupou and Daugunu will aim to demonstrate their capabilities and potentially secure a future spot with the Wallabies as they embark on what promises to be an intense encounter.