NSW Waratahs loosehead prop Angus Bell will notch a significant career milestone when he runs out for his 50th Cap in Friday’s Super Rugby Pacific Round 9 clash against the Chiefs at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park, Sydney.
The 24-year-old, who debuted at age 18 against the Crusaders, admitted reaching the half-century mark is something he once feared might not happen.
Speaking to media on Tuesday after NSW Waratahs training at Daceyville, Bell reflected on his injury setbacks, including a string of serious foot injuries.
Those injuries sidelined him for large periods in 2022, 2023 and 2024. At one point last year, he even questioned whether he would ever play again.
“I thought I was going to probably retire last year,” Bell said. “I didn’t really know if I would play in the front row again, which was pretty daunting.
“There’s been times where I doubted that I’d get to 50 or even be playing again, so it’s pretty surreal. It’s cool to hit 50. I never thought I would.”
Bell credits the NSW Waratahs’ environment and his love for the jersey for helping him through the tough periods.
“I just wanted to be remembered as someone who worked hard and was uncompromising, someone you wanted to play alongside,” Bell said.
“It’s pretty awesome to now be sitting here about to play my 50th for the Tahs.”
Bell’s milestone comes at a challenging time for his team that hopes to bounce back after back-to-back losses to the Hurricanes and Moana Pasifika.
Bell was honest in his assessment of the recent performances produced the NSW Waratahs in New Zealand, particularly in the area of defence.
“We’re just losing collisions and not being physical enough,” Bell said.
“When fatigue kicks in, we’ve got to be able to push through that and stay physical.
“We were really good for 45 minutes last week, but after that, we went away from our game plan and tried to match Moana’s style, which doesn’t suit us.”
This week’s assignment against the Chiefs, the competition leaders, looms as a massive test, but Bell said the NSW Waratahs had embraced the challenge.
“Every team is super competitive this year — if you don’t front up, you’ll get 40 points put on you,” he said.
“The Chiefs are quick, organised, and full of quality players like Damian McKenzie.
“We know what we’re up against, but we’re ready for it. The standards have definitely lifted at training this week.”
Bell also spoke highly of teammates like tighthead prop Taniela Tupou and back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, who have been under the microscope this season.
“Tani’s working really hard,” Bell said of Tupou. “People forget how good he can be — I’ve seen him take over games against the best in the world.
“He’s enjoying it here, he’s got a close group around him, and now it’s just about getting out there and doing it.
“He’s got a point to prove and I’m excited to see how he goes.”
On Suaalii, Bell praised the young star’s impact in Super Rugby Pacific so far.
“Joseph showed what he’s capable of last week,” Bell said.
“Everyone in our team has shown their individual brilliance at points this season — it’s just about pulling it all together collectively.”
The Wallabies prop was also asked about the future of players looking to move overseas and uncertainty over the next Wallabies coach following Joe Schmidt’s decision to stop.
“I don’t hold anything against someone wanting to go overseas,” Bell said.
“Rugby’s a global game — it’s like changing jobs from ‘Woolies’ to Coles,” he said.
“Someone like Noah [Lolesio, who is leaving the ACT Brumbies for Japan after the season] definitely deserves to be in the mix for the Lions series, whether he’s based here or not. He’s a classy player and an awesome bloke.”
As for the national team coaching situation, Bell said the players had adapted to change before and would do so again.
“Joe has put in some good structures already,” Bell said.
“We’ve seen the growth in Australian rugby since he’s been here, and I’m sure the powers that be are looking hard for someone similar or even better to take us forward.
“Hopefully Joe’s involved in some way — he loves coaching us and he’s a loyal guy.”
Despite the external noise, Bell’s focus remains firmly on Friday night’s battle and the opportunity to earn his 50th Cap in front of family, friends, and fans.
“It honestly feels like yesterday I was debuting with Marky Mark [Nawaqanitawase] against the Crusaders, and now here we are,” Bell said.
“I just want to keep enjoying my footy and making the most of every game I get to pull on the Waratahs jersey.”
Where: Allianz Stadium, Moore Park, Sydney
When: Friday, 11 April, 2025
Kick-off: 7.35 pm
For tickets to the game via Ticketek, click HERE
The game will be televised LIVE on Stan Sport - the home of rugby
