Super Rugby set for major changes in 2023

The Wallabies and Super Rugby Pacific have been rocked by several major announcements leading up to the beginning of the 2023 season.

Taniela Tupou, affectionately known as ‘Tongan Thor’, will remain in Australian rugby union by signing a two-year extension as a boost for the Wallabies’ front-row stocks.

Tupou has been plagued with injuries in the last 12 months but continues to be one of the Wallabies’ best forwards.

Sadly, for Queensland Reds fans, Tupou’s re-signing comes with the news that he will be leaving the Sunshine State at the end of the 2023 season to join the Melbourne Rebels.

In more positive news for the Reds, Tom Lynagh – son of Wallabies legend Michael Lynagh – will don the famous Reds No.10 jersey in round one of the Super Rugby against the Hurricanes in Townsville, replacing injured flyhalf James O’Connor.

Meanwhile, Angus Bell has signed through to the 2027 season for the Wallabies and NSW Waratahs. Bell told the media that a home Rugby World Cup was “something money can’t buy”.

The ACT Brumbies have shocked fans across the league by naming Nic White and Noah Lolesio on the bench for their clash with the Waratahs in round one. Ryan Lonergan and Jack Debrezceni have been named to start in their place.

Further reports have begun to circulate that Rebels fullback Reece Hodge has signed a three-year deal with French side Bayonne that will commence after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

Hodge will remain available for selection for the Wallabies under the ‘Giteau law’ that allows overseas players with 60 or more games for the Wallabies to continue playing in the national side.

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