New Zealand second row Patrick Tuipulotu is hoping to make some better memories against Ireland this week, after being recalled to the All Blacks squad.The veteran lock was drafted into the squad on Monday after Ian Foster's side lost Sam Whitelock to concussion and Tupou Vaa'i tested positive for Covid-19.The recall also came as a shock to the 29-year-old, whose sabbatical playing in Japan initially being the reason he wasn't considered for selection.But having returned to club rugby in New Zealand last weekend, the NZRU granted Tuipulotu special dispensation to be called into the squad, and he's likely to appear off the bench in this Saturday's second Test, with Scott Barrett expected to partner Brodie Retallick in the second row.Despite being a regular in the All Black squad in recent seasons, the 41-cap international has only ever played once against Ireland, starting in the second row in Ireland's famous 40-29 win against New Zealand in Chicago in 2016."I haven't had a good history with Ireland," he said, recalling that game at Soldier Field.And he says he expects a backlash from Ireland following last week's 42-19 defeat in Auckland."Obviously, Ireland are a very good side now and we've seen that in their wins against the All Blacks.
I’ve got to do my bit to put my hand up, but if not, I’ll do my bit to help the team prepare and get ready for a good Ireland team, who are on the back foot after last week."Tuipulotu's admits his call-up led to some domestic chaos on Monday.
The former Auckland Blues captain is married to New Zealand Silver Ferns netball international Phoenix Karaka, who was also away in camp at the time, with Tuipulotu (below) needing to make some last minute phonecalls before he linked up with the