By Eleanor Gee.

‘Ikale Tahi coach, Toutai Kefu has named the final squad to take on the Western Force at Teufaiva Stadium on 24 August.

The team were put through their paces in their last training session this morning before the game tomorrow and, according to Toutai, they are looking really good.

“This is the fifth week we’ve been together. That’s the most [time] I’ve ever had the team so the training today was really good. Usually we’re always finished by the fourth week and then we have six months off and then come back together again.”

He said over the next phase of training “we’re going to make some huge improvements”.

The plan for tomorrow’s game, said Toutai, is “stick with what we’re strong at”.

“I think we see some advantages in the set piece and size so we’ll be direct and physical.”

“We’ve already picked 15 [players] and then we’ll have everyone on the bench so we can just have rolling subs if we need it.”

The game tomorrow is also a chance for Tongans to see their national team in action before the Rugby World Cup.

Fly-half, Kurt Morath, who has played for Tonga in the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups, said he is excited to be here.

“It’s exciting. For me this will be my first game in Tonga. So, it’s something that I’ve always wanted to achieve to play in Tonga. So, it’s very exciting and it’s a good chance for the boys who have been training hard to put it out onto the field and see where we’re at.”

There are a few spots left on the team that Toutai still has to fill before the World Cup and he is on the lookout for potential players.

“Yeah, there’s probably two spots that’s still undecided.”

He said he would also consider local players. “Yes definitely. Never say never.”

A curtain raiser match will also take place between the Tongan Barbarians vs President’s XV at 1pm, featuring prominent players such as Nili Latu, George Smith and Hosea Saumaki.

‘Ikale Tahi team:

• Siegfried Fisi'ihoi
• Sefo Sakalia
• Ma'afu Fia
• Dan Faleafa
• Sam Lousi 
• Maama Vaipulu
• Zane Kapeli
• Steve Mafi
• Leon Fukofuka
• James Faiva
• Viliami Lolohea,
• Latiume Fosita,
• Malietoa Hingano
•  Nafi Tu'itavake
• ‘Atieli Pakalani

Coach: Toutai Kefu