The ATPL skill test may serve at the same time as a skill test for the issue of the licence and a proficiency check for the revalidation of the type rating for the aircraft used in the test and may be combined with the skill test for the issue of a MP type rating.
Which is exactly what was done in my previous organisation when we recruited an ex RAF pilot with AW139 TR on a CPL(H) and put him through an S92 TR course at FSI in Farnborough.
On any check ride you're the pilot in command.
In order to act as PIC you need a valid type rating.
With that logic, how could you ever get a TR issued then or, indeed, get your initial CPL?