By Eleanor Gee

The ‘Ikale Tahi has added nine experienced players to their squad this week in preparation for the game against England on Saturday Nov. 6, at Twickenham Stadium in south-west London.

The players include three new caps, former Wallaby Lopeti Timani, Afusipa Taumoepeau (former Brumbies and Melbourne Rebels), and Solomone Kata (former Brumbies), as well as experienced ‘Ikale Tahi players, Ben Taumeifuna, Telusa Veainu, Paula Ngauamo, Ma’afu Fia, Siegfreid Fisi’ihoi, and Sione Vailanu.

Head Coach Toutai Kefu believes these players will add experience and ability to the group.

"We are building a solid depth chart as we approach the qualifiers for RWC2023 in July next year. We play Hong Kong in Tonga and our team will be ready with experience and ability in all positions.”

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has provided staff to assist with the managing of the team at no cost to Tonga Rugby Union.

The ‘Ikale Tahi team to face England on Saturday is yet to be announced. The match starts at 3:15 pm UK time.

Next week, the ‘Ikale Tahi will continue their northern hemisphere tour playing the French Barbarians on November 13, followed by a game against Romania on November 20.

Tonga started their tour last weekend against Scotland, going down 14 - 60.