Tupou and Alaalatoa return from concussion for Test against Wales

The Wallabies are banking on prop Taniela Tupou to provide power in the scrum as they bid to end their UK tour with a win over Wales.

Taniela Tupou will start for the Wallabies against Wales. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images for Rugby Australia

Powerhouse prop Taniela Tupou has been recalled to Australia’s starting team as the Wallabies seek to avoid a barren UK tour by beating Wales on Sunday morning.

Concussed soon after coming off the bench in Australia’s 15-13 loss to Scotland less than two weeks ago, Tupou missed the Wallabies’ 32-15 defeat to England last weekend.

Fellow tighthead prop Allan Alaalatoa was in the same boat, having started against Scotland, but ruled out for the clash against England at Twickenham.

And while Alaalatoa has also been picked to face Wales at Cardiff, the Brumbies front-rower will have to be content with a spot on the bench, with Wallabies coach Dave Rennie opting to use Tupou from the opening whistle to allow the Reds star to make an early mark on the contest.

“It’s great to have Taniela and Allan back in the mix this week,” Rennie said.

“They bring a level of experience that will be key for us against a tough Welsh team.

“We’ve made some great shifts this year, but we’ve been disappointed with our performances in the last two Tests and we’ll be looking to ensure we finish the year on a positive note against Wales.”

Taniela Tupou returns for the Wallabies this weekend against Wales. Picture: Kenta Harada/Getty Images

The Wallabies won five straight Tests before heading to the UK.

However, if Wales condemns the Australians to a hat-trick of defeats, it will be the first time the Wallabies have failed to win a Test on a European tour since 1976.

As announced earlier this week, veteran prop James Slipper will captain Australia in the absence of regular skipper Michael Hooper, who has a strained foot.

“Slips is hugely respected in our mob and a strong contributor to our leadership group. He was the obvious choice to lead us in the absence of Hoops,” Rennie said.

Hooper’s spot at openside flanker has gone, as expected, to Pete Samu.

There is also a change at hooker, with Tolu Latu starting, and Folau Fainga’a dropping back to the bench.

One other change has been made to the 15 that started against England, with Reds winger Filipo Daugunu earning his first Wallabies jersey since breaking his arm against France back in July.

Daugunu replaces Tom Wright, who has been relegated to the bench.

The replacements also include uncapped Waratahs inside back Lalakai Foketi, who is poised to become the 950th player to represent the Wallabies.

“Lalakai has been with the squad all year and worked extremely hard to earn his first international opportunity in what’s a proud moment for him and his family,” Rennie said.

Wallabies team to play Wales at Principality Stadium, Cardiff on Sunday, 4,30am (AEDT): 1. James Slipper (c), 2. Tolu Latu, 3. Taniela Tupou, 4. Rory Arnold, 5. Izack Rodda, 6. Rob Leota, 7. Pete Samu, 8. Rob Valetini, 9. Nic White, 10. James O’Connor, 11. Filipo Daugunu, 12. Hunter Paisami, 13. Len Ikitau, 14. Andrew Kellaway, 15. Kurtley Beale. Replacements: 16. Folau Fainga’a, 17. Angus Bell, 18. Allan Alaalatoa, 19. Will Skelton, 20. Lachlan Swinton, 21. Tate McDermott, 22. Lalakai Foketi, 23. Tom Wright.

Originally published as Tupou and Alaalatoa return from concussion for Test against Wales