From financial to footy for Wallaby Tapuai

Don’t expect Wallabies hopeful Ben Tapuai to become a player manager once he retires, despite negotiating his new two-year deal on his own.

Tapuai has re-signed with Queensland and the ARU and decided he wanted to go through the arduous process without the aid of an agent.

The well-adjusted 23-year-old can now focus on winning a midfield berth with the Wallabies for the Rugby Championship, after learning some lessons from his experience.

Tapuai says managing himself was an eye-opener but he won’t be recommending to others to ditch their 10 per centers.

“Probably not. It’s pretty hard, I wouldn’t advise it,” said Tapuai on Thursday from Wallabies’ camp.

“That’s why players have managers, but I did it myself to try it out and it was good for me.

“You know how much you’re worth and what’s out there.

“I’m happy with my deal … but I’m happy it’s over now.”

Following Pat McCabe’s withdrawal from the opening two Rugby Championship Tests with stress fractures in his left leg, an opportunity has opened up at No.12.

Tapuai wore that jersey and successfully shut down Sonny Bill Williams in last year’s Super Rugby final when Queensland beat the Crusaders.

He views Williams as the toughest defensive assignment in world rugby, but is desperate to earn a second Wallabies cap.

“He’s big, athletic and it’s a good challenge for you if you’re up against him. If you think he’s already beaten you, you’re already beaten,” he said.

“His key asset is his offload, so the main thing is to shut him down and if he doesn’t have his offloads it’s better for us. That will be our mindset.”

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