By Everest Hala
A cricket session at His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) naval base on Taufaʻahau Road marked the end of a week-long Australian Defence Force (ADF) sports training program in Nukuʻalofa on 19 March 2026.
The session, focused on reintroducing cricket to Tonga, brought together HMAF personnel alongside police and prison staff for skill-building activities and team exercises.
Led by the ADF under the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) sports initiative, the program aimed to build sporting capacity and support regional partnerships. Activities throughout the week included rugby union coaching, refereeing courses and community sports clinics.
ADF International Sports Program Director Colonel Richard Watson said the initiative builds on previous cooperation between Australia and Tonga.
“We hope this is part of a long-term partnership, developing skills, sharing knowledge, and strengthening community ties through sport,” he said.
ADF Navy representative Amanda Green said the program introduced cricket to local athletes.
“Tongan athletes are incredible. They’ve picked up the game so quickly, and most importantly, they’re enjoying it,” she said.
Royal Australian Air Force member Aaron Noffke said participants showed strong engagement with the sport.
“We’re reintroducing cricket in a fun way, and the response has been amazing. The athletes here are naturally talented, and they’ve embraced the game with real energy,” he said.
The program primarily targeted HMAF members and also included outreach activities in the community. ADF personnel visited local schools earlier in the week, introducing children to cricket and other sports through games.
Participation by women and girls was encouraged during the program. Green noted the global growth of women’s cricket.
“Women’s cricket is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and Tongan women have so much potential in this space,” she said.
The visit marks the ADF’s second engagement in Tonga in recent years, following a similar program in 2023. This year’s activities were based in Nukuʻalofa, with potential plans to expand to outer islands.
The initiative involved collaboration between the ADF, the Australian High Commission, Tongan sporting bodies and regional organisations including Oceania Rugby and World Rugby.
Chloe Dray, a World Rugby trainer working with the ADF, encouraged young girls to get involved in sport.
“Have a go. Rugby is a sport for everybody. Make friends, have fun, that’s why we love the game.”
