A 19 Mate Ma’a Tonga squad was announced by coach Kristian Woolf with Sika Manu returning as captain for the test against Australia’s Kangaroos on October 20, in Auckland.

Although this is Tonga’s first-ever game against the world champion, the majority of the squad named were part of last year's inspirational run to the World Cup semi-finals.

NRL stated only Manly forward Addin Fonua-Blake and development players Robert Jennings (South Sydney Rabbitohs) and Leivaha Pulu (NZ Warriors) were not in the squad that just fell short of meeting the Kangaroos in the 2017 World Cup Final.

Woolf said he was excited at the squad Tonga had managed to assemble, especially with the injection of the experienced Manu.

He said to be able to have Sika Manu in as a leader for this squad is a big plus after being cleared of knee injury.

"This group has shown a commitment to their country of heritage and we are pleased with the calibre of the squad we have been able to name.”

Woolf said they realise there is a huge challenge ahead of them in playing against the current World Cup holder, so they are extending every resource they can to give this challenge their absolute best effort.

The squad will travel to New Zealand next week for a pre-match camp in Hamilton before heading to Auckland for the test.

MATE MA'A TONGA SQUAD
Andrew Fifita – Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
Addin Fonua-Blake – Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
David Fusitu'a – Warriors
Siliva Havilli – Canberra Raiders
Ata Hingano – Canberra Raiders
Will Hopoate – Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Konileti Hurrell – Gold Coast Titans
Michael Jennings – Parramatta Eels
Solomone Kata – Warriors
Sione Katoa – Penrith Panthers
Tuimoala Lolohea – Wests Tigers
Sika Manu – Hull FC
Ben Murdoch-Masilla – Warrington Wolves
Joe Ofahengaue – Brisbane Broncos
Tevita Pangai Junior – Brisbane Broncos
Jason Taumalolo – North Qld Cowboys
Sio Siua Taukeiaho – Sydney Roosters
Peni Terepo – Parramatta Eels
Daniel Tupou – Sydney Roosters

Development players: Robert Jennings (South Sydney Rabbitohs) and Leivaha Pulu (Warriors)