Tonga's national rugby team, the 'Ikale Tahi was welcomed back home last night by thousands of people who were at the airport and were waiting on the side of the road from the airport to Nuku'alofa.

People have been gathering on the side of the main road into the capital, Taufa'ahau Road since early evening, and by midnight there were still loud music and people dancing, and cheering for any passing vehicle in case one of their heroes, was inside the vehicle.

Most of the 'Ikale Tahi Rugby World Cup team members returned last night, excepting for 'Inoke Afeaki, Taufa'ao Filise and Maama Molitika.

The performance of the 'Ikale Tahi at the Rugby World Cup in France was outstanding with their victory over the USA and Samoa, their narrow loss to the Springboks 30-25 and their competitive performance against the world champion England, and although they lost 36-20 but they touched the hearts of Tongans throughout the world.

Celebrations

At 11:00am the 'Ikale Tahi will have an audience with HM King George V at the 'Api Konisela, before they embark on a special float parade along central Nuku'alofa this afternoon.

The 'Ikale Tahi welcome back celebration will continue to a special luncheon in the afternoon.

In the evening the 'Ikale Tahi will be welcomed home by the Prime Minister Hon. Dr Feleti Sevele and the Government of Tonga at a special reception at the Janfull International Dateline Hotel.