Taniela Tupou, known as Tongan Thor for his powerful running and scrummaging, has credited a move to French club Racing 92 with revitalizing his rugby career and mental wellbeing. The 30-year-old front-rower returned to the Australian national team last week after completing his first season in Paris, in what he describes as a fitter and more focused state than he experienced during his final years playing in Australia’s Super Rugby competition.

Tupou admitted his performance had declined during his stints with the Melbourne Rebels and New South Wales Waratahs after eight seasons with the Queensland Reds. Recognizing the need for a fresh start, he took the opportunity to play abroad, a decision he now says was pivotal for restoring his enjoyment of the game and regaining form.

“Thank God I left to go to France, because I needed a change,” Tupou said. He acknowledged struggling initially to adapt to the different playing style in the French league, particularly as a front-rower. “I thought it was going to be easy, but it was hard and took a few months to get used to it,” he explained.

Adjusting his lifestyle was also crucial. Tupou jokes that the allure of French cuisine, including baguettes and croissants, initially undermined his fitness goals. However, after committing to healthier habits, he lost several kilos and improved his overall condition. “I’m in a good spot, and I feel good about myself,” he said.

Tupou’s return to the Wallabies coincides with a challenging period for the team. Halfback Carter Gordon has been ruled out of this weekend’s Test against France and the subsequent match against Italy in Perth due to a calf injury. Gordon had impressed alongside scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan in the first half of last week’s game against Ireland before both players were forced off with injuries.

Wallabies backrower Fraser McReight expressed his disappointment at Gordon’s absence, calling it a “massive blow.” Despite this setback, McReight emphasized the team's depth and resilience. “Injuries are part of rugby, and we’ve always said next man up,” he noted. McReight highlighted the readiness of Ben Donaldson and Declan Meredith, two players who have had strong Super Rugby seasons and are pushing for national selection, ensuring continuity in the squad.

As Tupou prepares to face France on Saturday, his renewed physical and mental state will be vital for Australia’s forward pack, while the team will look to manage the loss of Gordon by leveraging its emerging talent in key playmaking roles.