Tonga Rugby League coach Kristian Woolf named a 25-man squad to play against the New Zealand Kiwis ahead of the June 25 Test in Auckland.
The team will feature the likes of hard running forwards Jason Taumalolo, Addin Fonua-Blake and Tevita Pangai jnr. Manly second-rower Haumole Olakau’atu and Cronulla centre Siosifa Talakai, who have both been mentioned as contenders to join the NSW squad for Origin II in Perth on June 26, have also been included.
“We have named a powerful squad that includes experienced players who have helped Tonga to victories in the past,” Woolf said.
“There is also a sprinkling of new players in the squad who will be important as we move forward in a World Cup year and beyond.
Perhaps rounding off the near perfect squad are NSW Origin stars Daniel Tupou and Kotoni Staggs who will add to the firepower in the backline.
“There are players that can play both State of Origin and for Tonga and a decision on where they play will be made by Sunday when both interstate and international teams are selected for next week’s representative matches.
Under international eligibility rules, players can play for both their state and Tonga.
Mate Ma’a Tonga
Tolotau Koula (Sea Eagles)
Daniel Tupou (Roosters)
Siosifa Talakai (Sharks)
Mosese Suli (Dragons)
Sione Katoa (Sharks)
Kotoni Staggs (Broncos)
Talatau Amone (Dragons)
Siosiua Taukieaho (Roosters)
Siliva Havili (Rabbitohs)
Addin Fonua-Blake (Warriors)
Sitili Tupouniua (Roosters)
Keaon Koloamatangi (Rabbitohs)
Jason Taumalolo (Cowboys)
Soni Luke (Panthers)
Haumole Olakau’atu (Sea Eagles)
Tevita Pangai jnr (Bulldogs)
Tevita Tatola (Rabbitohs)
Moeaki Fotuaika (Titans)
Will Penisini (Eels)
Isaiya Katoa (Panthers)
Andrew Fifita (Sharks)
Joe Ofahengaue (Wests Tigers)
Starford To’a (Wests Tigers)
Christian Tuipulotu (Sea Eagles)
Eliesa Katoa (Warriors)