Tonga names strong team to take on Flying Fijians

Tonga has named a strong team to face the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians with some experienced players making a return to the team.

Sione Kalamafoni is set to play his first test for Tonga in more than three years.

The 31‑year‑old loose forward earned the last of his 31 test caps for the 'Ikale Tahi in June 2016 and was ruled out of the Pacific Nations Cup through injury but the Leicester Tigers back‑rower has proved his fitness at the optimum time, with head coach Toutai Kefu set to unveil his Rugby World Cup squad next Monday.

Radio New Zealand report Stade Francais prop Siegfried Fisi'ihoi starts alongside hooker Paul Ngauamo and Siua Hala-nuko-nuka in the front row, in what will be his first test appearance this year.

ACT Brumbies and former Australian Under‑20s prop Vunipola Fifita is set to make his test debut off the bench.

In the backs James Faiva is once again given the nod at first five, with veteran Kurt Morath included on the bench ahead of Latiume Fosita.

Tonga, who beat the Flying Fijians 27‑18 when the teams last met in Lautoka 14 months ago, will round out their World Cup preparations against the All Blacks in Hamilton next weekend.

The Flying Fijians meet Tonga at 4.30pm Saturday at Eden Park.

Source : Radio NZ

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