Prime Minister announces Mate Ma’a Tonga squad for Kiwi Test
18 June 2022
Nuku’alofa – The Prime Minister, Honourable Hu’akavameiliku has announced a strong 25-member Mate Ma’a Toga Rugby League squad to prepare for the one-off Test against the New Zealand Kiwis at Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland on June 25.
The announcement was made at a press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ conference room here in Nuku’alofa yesterday, June 15.
The players selected were from the National Rugby League competition in Australia and the New Zealand Warriors.
Coach Kristian Woof is unavailable because his St Helens team is currently playing in the Super Rugby League competition in Great Britain.
This includes Daniel Tupou and Kotoni Staggs.
“We have named them in the squad but they have to confirm,” Hon Hu’akavameiliku said.
He said the country was behind the team and wished them well.
“We extend to them our best wishes and prayers that they will do well,” he added.
Here is the Mate Ma’a Tonga squad:
Toluta’u Koula – Manly-Warrington Sea Eagles
Daniel Tupou – Sydney Roosters
Siosifa Talakai – Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
Mosese Suli – St George Illawarra Dragons
Sione Katoa – Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
Kotoni Staggs – Bribane Broncos
Talatau Amone – St George Illawarra Dragons
Siosiua Taukei’aho – Sydney Roosters
Siliva Havili – South Sydney Rabbitohs
Addin Fonua-Blake – New Zealand Warriors
Sitili Tupouniua – Sydney Roosters
Keaon Koloamatangi – South Sydney Rabbitohs
Jason Taumalolo – North Queensland Cowboys
Soni Luke – Penrith Panthers
Haumole Olakau’atu – Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles
Tevita Pangai Jr. – Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Tevita Tatola – South Sydney Rabbitohs
Moeaki Fotu’aika – Gold Coast Titans
Will Penisini – Parramatta Eels
Isaiva Katoa – Penrith Panthers
Andrew Fifita – Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
Joe Ofahengaue – West Tigers
Starford To’a – West Tigers
Christian Tu’ipulotu – Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles
Eliesa Katoa – New Zealand Warriors
The Minister for Internal Affairs (Sports), Hon Sangster Saulala and the Minster for Economic Development and Trade Hon Dr Viliami Latu will be present at the match to represent Government.
ENDS
