- Date of Birth12 / 02 / 1997
- Lions Tours2025
- International CapsScotland (30 caps)
- Lions Origin SchoolsSt Francis Xavier PS Frankston (Australia), St Kevin's College Melbourne (Australia)
- Lions Origin ClubsMelbourne Rising, Melbourne Rebels, Yamaha Jubilo
While The British & Irish Lions were preparing for their 2021 Tour of South Africa, a largely unknown back was included on a list of 17 uncapped players for Scotland’s summer series against Romania and Georgia.
Since then, Sione Tuipolotu has grown into one of the world’s best inside centres, a Scotland captain and, a British & Irish Lion.
The centre scored the first try of the 2025 Test series, sparking the Lions' victory in the first Test against the Wallabies in Brisbane. He also featured in four warm-up matches across the Tour.
Tuipolotu arrived in Glasgow in 2021 with the ambition of becoming a Scotland international. Born and raised in Melbourne, via a four-year stay in Tonga, he qualifies for Scotland through his grandmother, who is from Greenock.
A combative, ball-carrying No.12, he combines immense power with a deft touch and has helped transform the midfield of both Glasgow Warriors and his national team.
"When I arrived [at Glasgow] I couldn't even imagine that four years later or whatever, I could be in contention to possibly go on this Tour," Tuipulotu said.
"But things have worked out, however they've worked out."
A standout performer as Glasgow Warriors won the 2024 United Rugby Championship, Tuipolotu was promoted to Scotland captain for the 2024 Autumn Nations Series.
That included a match against Australia and in memorable scenes, his granny flew out to surprise him on the eve of the match. She watched on as her grandson scored a 22nd-minute try en route to a 27-13 win.
A pectoral injury ruled Tuipolotu out of the Six Nations and Scotland missed his presence in midfield as they finished fourth in the table. Fighting fit, he returned in time for his maiden Lions Tour and played a crucial role.