Tonga's National Seven-a-side Rugby Team, the Digicel Tonga 7 left Tonga for the Rugby 7's World Cup in Dubai on Saturday morning, February 28.

The 12 players to represent Tonga in Dubai were announced on Friday, February 27 after they had their final training at Veitongo in the morning.

The team accompanied by four officials lead by coach Peter Tanginoa will fly via Auckland and Singapore on their way to Dubai.

Digicel Tonga 7 Squad

1. Josateki Veikune (Kolofo'ou)

2. Siaosi Tuatao (NZ Counties)

3. Sione Fonua (Silapeluua)

4. Ualosi Kailea (Vaini)

5. Teu i Muli Kaufusi (Silapeluua)

6. Viliami Ma'afu (North Harbour) Captain

7. Paea Poteki (Silapeluua)

8. Peasipa Moimoi (Lavengamalie)

9. Alaska Taufa (Japan)

10. Mateo Malupo (Silapeluua)

11. Ofa Takai (Silapeluua)

12. Sosaia Palei (Ha'akame)

Management

1. Peter Tanginoa, Coach

2. Richard Wightman, Manager

3. Manu Vunipola, Assistant Manager

4. Leevan Santos, Physio

Following the announcement of the team, Peter said that Tonga's first three games will be first against the host's team, Dubai on Thursday, March 5, followed by two games against Italy and New Zealand on Friday, March 6.

After the Dubai World Cup, Peter said the Tonga team will stop over in New Zealand and compete in the first Pasifika Auckland City Sevens tournament on March 14, before returning to Tonga on March 16.