Wallabies’ $1.2 million man Taniela Tupou receives reprieve from Waratahs, England Sevens star rushed into squad
The inclusion of a former England Sevens representative is one of two changes to the NSW Waratahs’ side to take on the Chiefs this Friday, while a Wallabies’ star has received a reprieve for his poor form.
Former England Sevens representative Jamie Adamson has been rushed into the New South Wales starting side for Friday’s critical Super Rugby clash against New Zealand’s Chiefs at Allianz Stadium.
Adamson replaces the stricken Waratahs backrower Charlie Gamble in one of two changes to the NSW run-on side.
In the backline, Joey Walton returns to the starting XV as inside centre, with Lalakai Foketi switching to outside centre and Henry O’Donnell moving to the bench.
Test prop Taniela Tupou retained his spot on the reserves despite ongoing concerns about his form slump.
Rugby Australia’s $1.2 million man, Tupou lost his place in the starting side a fortnight ago and made little impact off the bench in NSW’s humiliating 45-28 loss to Moana Pasifika last weekend, drawing widespread criticism for his poor attempted tackle on Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, who strolled through for one of several second half tries.
After a promising start to the season, the Waratahs have lost three of their last four games to drop to sixth on the ladder but head coach Dan McKellar said he expected his players to bounce back.
“Injuries have played a part at different times this season, but overall there’s a growing consistency in selection, which is important,” he said.
“Outside of Charlie being unavailable, and a few longer-term injuries, it’s a squad that’s building nicely.
“We’re comfortable with the 23 we’ve picked for what’s going to be a huge game.”
An open-side flanker who was signed by the Waratahs after helping Easts win the Shute Shield premiership last year, Adamson has impressed McKellar with his previous appearances as a substitute to earn his first start in the blue jersey.
“Unfortunately, Charlie is unwell and wasn’t available for selection this week,” McKellar said.
“Jamie’s been really solid for us coming off the bench.
“He’s fit, he’ll bring high energy and a lot of physicality, particularly around the tackle area.
“It’s a great opportunity for him to show what he can do from the opening whistle.”
Walton was given a partial rest last weekend to help manage his heavy workload but with the Waratahs needing to win to keep in touch with the leaders ahead of the playoffs, McKellar has brought him back in against the table-topping Chiefs.
“They’re a side that’s probably favoured to win the comp,” McKellar said.
“We know the challenge that’s in front of us, but we’re excited by it.
“Joey’s played a lot of minutes for us this year and has been carrying a few bumps and bruises.
“Last week we just thought it was smart to ease his load a little by bringing him off the bench.
“He’s been a strong performer and deserves his place back in the starting team.
“Moving Lalakai to 13 gives us a good blend of power and skill in the centres.
Waratahs team to play the Chiefs
1-Angus Bell, 2-Ethan Dobbins, 3-Daniel Botha, 4-Hugh Sinclair (captain), 5-Ben Grant, 6-Rob Leota, 7-Jamie Adamson, 8-Langi Gleeson, 9-Teddy Wilson, 10-Lawson Creighton, 11-Triston Reilly, 12-Joey Walton, 13-Lalakai Foketi, 14-Andrew Kellaway, 15-Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
Reserves: 16-Julian Heaven, 17-Isaac Kailea, 18-Taniela Tupou, 19-Miles Amatosero, 20-Leafi Talataina, 21-Jack Grant, 22-Jack Bowen, 23-Henry O’Donnell
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