Tonga have announced a stacked side for their 2023 Rugby World Cup warm-up matches, as the Sea Eagles complete their final preparations ahead of the trip to France.
Tonga take on Pacific Islander rivals Fiji and Samoa, before a trip to the far East to play Japan ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Tonga coach Toutai Kefu has named a 35-player squad for the Tests in July, with some high profile names amongst the squad.
Former Wallabies and London Irish lock Adam Coleman has switched allegiances to play for Tonga, after making 38 appearances for Australia. Former All Blacks Malakai Fekitoa and Charles Piutau have followed suit, after the World Rugby international eligibility laws were changed.
Also, former All Blacks Sevens star Pita Ahki joins up with Tonga, along with controversial ex-Wallabies player Israel Folau. Tonga have been drawn into the ‘Group of Death’, as they are set to take on South Africa, Ireland, Scotland and Romania in Pool B.
Tonga boast a decorated squad of exciting players from across Super Rugby and the Northern Hemisphere’s top leagues. Premiership fans will recognise the likes of Solomone Kata, with the former Exeter Chiefs star set for a big performance ahead of his move to Leicester Tigers next season.
Forwards:
Siegfried Fisi’ihoi
Feao Fotuaika
David Lolohea
Paula Ngauamo
Siua Maile
Samiuela Moli
Sosefo Sakalia
Ben Tameifuna
Tau Koloamatangi
Sosefo Apikotoa
Adam Coleman
Samiuela Lousi
Halaleva Fifita
Sitiveni Mafi
Vaea Fifita
Tanginoa Halaifonua
Solomone Funaki
Sione Vailanu
Lopeti Timani
Sione Havili Talitui
Backs:
Sonatane Takulua
Augustine Pulu
Manu Paea
William Havili
Otumaka Mausia
Patrick Pellegrini
Pita Ahki
Malakai Fekitoa
Afusipa Taumoepeau
George Moala
Fine Inisi
Israel Folau
Solomone Kata
Charles Piutau
Kyren Taumoefolau