Tonga’s Under-20 National Rugby team is off to New Zealand to compete in a new competition hosted by the Moana Pasifika at North Harbour, Auckland on the 27 February, 2 March and 6 March.

This year, the competition will feature Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and a Moana Pasifika invitational team.

Before they left for New Zealand, the team visited the Prime Minister, Hon Hu'akavameiliku on 23 February at St George Government Building.

The competition was launched by Oceania Rugby and Moana Pasifika, is designed to “reinvigorate U20s pathway programs across the Pacific region.”

The new competition will also serve as a qualifier for Samoa and Tonga for the 2024 World Rugby U20s Trophy to be played in Scotland from 2-17 July.

The winner of the two Pacific foes in round two will advance as Oceania’s representative to this key event.

“Our main objective is to identify the best development systems to help our talent reach their full potential, and this tournament will greatly benefit our future growth plans and programs" said CEO of Tonga Rugby Union, 'Aisea 'Aholelei.

Team List

Tautapu Ataata
Tutuila Taulava
Sinaipa Langi
Asipeli Vuki
Sione Siale
Atonio Ulavalu
Isileli Tava
Simote Leone
Kolo Afemui
Peni Tafea
Filisonuu Taufa
Uikelotu Afeaki (captain)
Haniteli Fakateli
Veliani Lavakeiaho
Peter Mafi
Kiunga Ofahulu
William Helu
Sione Matakaiongo
Poasi Tonga
Pauli Uasi
Kelepi Petelo
Siosifa Tohi
Manatu Leleifi
Lolesio Sailosi
Fotofili Mahe
Siaosi Vaioleti
Penifotu Vainikolo
Sione Tohi

Management

Head Coach - Siaosi Atiola
Assistant Coaches - Taholo 'Anitoni and Tomasi 'Akimeta
S&C - Sateki Ika
Physio - Siosaia Vakasiuola