Amanaki Mafi will make his Super Rugby debut for the Melbourne Rebels against the Auckland Blues tomorrow in the first round of the Super Rugby Season. He was named in the starting lineup alongside fellow Tongan born Rebel teammate Lopeti Timani for the match that will kick off at the AAMI Park, Melbourne at 19:45 Australian eastern time.

The 27-year-old Number 8 was born and raised in Tonga. He attended Tonga College 'Atele before moving to Japan to play professional Rugby. He represented Japan at the 2015 Rugby World Cup where he helped Japan to win a historic victory against the Springboks. 

Amanaki is recognised as an impact player and made 12 appearances for Japan. Last year, he was signed on short term contract by Bath Rugby in the United Kingdom to play in the Aviva Premiership. He proved to be a valuable asset for Bath, scoring four tries in his first four matches.

Rebels lock Lopeti Timani will join Amanaki Mafi on the field tommorrow. The 26-year-old Lopeti Timani also attended Tonga College 'Atele.