'Stars have aligned' for Tuipulotu before Melbourne return

Scotland centre has the opportunity to seal series win against Australia in the city where he was born

- Gerard Meagher

Sione Tuipulotu has to raise his game this week. By his own admission he has not been up to scratch. He has been surprised by just how off the pace he has been, but he is confident he will deliver in the buildup to the second Test between the British & Irish Lions and Australia.

Tuipulotu is referring to his role as the Lions' tour guide, having grown up in Australia, as Andy Farrell's players arrive in his home city of Melbourne hoping to wrap up the series. "I haven't actually been that good at it," he says. "It's surprising, I don't actually know that much about Australia having lived here that long. I know a bit about Melbourne, so I'll point the boys to some good spots."