The Australia A squad will arrive in Nuku’alofa on 12 July ahead of their anticipated match against the 'Ikale Tahi on Friday afternoon, 14 July.

The primary focus will be Australia A taking on Tonga on the 50^th anniversary of Tonga’s 1973 victory over the Wallabies at Ballymore in Brisbane.

Rugby AU stated that the Australian players and staff will also have the opportunity to engage with the wider Tongan community, including Tonga High School, Kolomatu’a Rugby Club, and women’s and men’s rugby players of His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) at Masefield Navy Base.

Rugby Australia Executive, Anthony French, said “Australia and Tonga’s Rugby rivalry doesn’t just build mutual respect and pride; it brings our nations together through shared goals, heroes, and achievements. 

“We look forward to further strengthening this relationship on and off the field in Tonga as both of our countries build towards Rugby World Cup 2023.”

He said that Tonga has built an impressive squad under Toutai Kefu, and they will be tough competition for Australia A and at the World Cup later this year.

“We want to thank the Australian Government and Tonga Rugby Union who made this fixture possible”. 

PacificAus Sports creates ongoing opportunities for Australian and Tongan athletes, coaches, and sports administrators to train, play and grow together.

The Australia A team was announced on 5 July by the Wallabies that included two players with Tongan heritage, Folau Fainga'a and Sam Talakai.