Tonga Unveils Powerful Lineup for Showdown Against Australia ‘A’
Tonga’s head coach, Toutai Kefu, has unveiled a formidable lineup for the upcoming match against Australia ‘A’ at Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku’alofa on Friday.
This highly anticipated clash will see two debutants making their first appearance for the Tongan squad. Pita Ahki, a talented centre from Toulouse, has earned a spot in the starting line-up, while Kyren Taumoefolau from Moana Pasifika will be providing support from the bench.
Ahki’s Test debut follows his recent triumph in the Top 14 competition with Toulouse, where they secured the title after a thrilling final against La Rochelle in Paris, winning 29-26.
Tonga’s backline is quite impressive, with Charles Piutau taking up the full-back position, Pita Ahki and Malakai Fekitoa in the centres with Israel Folau and Fine Inisi starting as the wings. Together, they form a potent attacking force.
In the forward pack, Tonga boasts a strong front row with Siegfried Fisi’ihoi and Ben Tameifuna as the props, complementing hooker Sam Moli. The second row consists of Sam Lousi and Leva Fifita, a promising duo. Additionally, Steve Mafi provides a wealth of experience as a substitute option.
The back-row features Tanginoa Halaifonua at blindside, Solomone Funaki on the openside, and the exceptional Vaea Fifita taking the number eight position. Fifita has been in outstanding form for the Scarlets in the United Rugby Championship throughout the season, making him a player that Australia ‘A’ should be cautious of.
Kefu has also assembled a strong bench, with Siua Maile as the reserve hooker, Tau Koloamatangi and David Lolohe as additional prop options, and Steve Mafi covering the lock position. In the backline, Manu Paea is the replacement scrumhalf, Otumaka Mausia is the backup fly-half, and Taumoefolau will potentially earn his first cap for Tonga.
With this impressive lineup, Tonga aims to make a statement against Australia ‘A’ and showcase their strength in international rugby.
