Vatuvei always wanted red jersey [1]
Friday, May 5, 2017 - 18:25. Updated on Friday, May 5, 2017 - 18:28.
Tomorrow evening, Manu Vatuvei will put on the red jersey of Tonga for the first time and represent the country of his heritage. Vatuvei’s decision to play for the Mate Ma’a Tonga is a long time coming for many Tongan fans, who eagerly await to see him perform the Sipi Tau against the Fiji Bati.
“I’ve always wanted to play for my heritage, for Tonga”, Vatuvei told the Daily Telegraph on Wednesday.
“It’s because that’s where my parents grew up, in Tonga. I know all the struggles they’ve gone through just to get our family here and all the sacrifices they had to make.”
The Auckland born and raised, Manu Vatuvei, is one of the most experienced Rugby League players in New Zealand. He first debuted for New Zealand in 2005 and played a key role in helping the Kiwis to win the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.
Vatuvei’s experience will be an invaluable asset for the Mate Ma’a Tonga, not only against the Fiji Bati tomorrow, but also perhaps in the upcoming rugby league world cup later this year.