FridayOL

Former Wallabies powerhouse Sekope Kepu believes that Tongan Thor, Taniela Tupou, is absolutely crucial if Australia is to conquer the British & Irish Lions this year. Despite a recent dip in form, Kepu is unwavering in his support for the fiery tighthead prop, insisting Tupou's peak performance is still yet to come. This bold statement comes amidst scrutiny surrounding Tupou’s consistency, with some questioning his role in the squad moving forward.

“Taniela’s got to be in that mix, no question,” Kepu declared. “He’s a game-changer. When he’s on, he’s on. He brings that physicality, that aggression, that edge that we need against a team like the Lions. You can’t shy away from that.”

Kepu, a veteran of 117 Wallabies tests, understands the pressure Tupou is under. He acknowledges the recent criticism but firmly believes it's a temporary setback. “Every player goes through form dips,” he explained. “It’s part of the game. The key is how you respond to it. Taniela’s got the character to do that, and I’ve seen him working hard to get back to his best.”

The significance of Tupou’s role extends beyond his brute strength and bone-jarring tackles. His ability to disrupt the opposition’s scrum and provide a platform for the Wallabies’ backs is vital. The Lions possess a formidable pack, and neutralizing their scrum power will be a major priority for the Australian coaching staff.

But what gives Kepu such confidence in Tupou’s eventual resurgence? He points to the prop’s incredible potential and his inherent desire to improve. “He’s still developing,” Kepu asserted. “He’s still learning. I genuinely believe his best years are still ahead of him. He’s got the work ethic, the talent, and the determination to reach new heights.”

Kepu’s endorsement is a significant boost for Tupou, who will be eager to prove his doubters wrong. The upcoming series against the Lions presents the perfect opportunity for the prop to showcase his abilities and solidify his place in the Wallabies’ plans. With Kepu’s unwavering belief and Tupou’s undeniable talent, the prospect of a Tongan Thor-powered Wallabies triumph is certainly within reach.

The challenge now lies in harnessing that power and ensuring Tupou delivers consistent performances throughout the series. The Wallabies faithful will be hoping to see the return of the destructive force that has terrorized opposition defenses in the past. If Tupou can find his form, he will undoubtedly be a key weapon in Australia’s quest to defeat the Lions and claim victory on home soil.