No Folau in Tonga World Cup squad
NEWS: Israel Folau has been left out of Tonga’s World Cup squad announced by coach Toutai Kefu who named 32 players with one more name to be added.
Tonga have confirmed that the controversial fullback has failed to recover from a knee injury and will miss the tournament alongside Telusa Veainu.
He won his first cap for Tonga in 2022 after he switched allegiances following a career with Australia. The 34-year-old was fired by Rugby Australia in 2019.
Adam Coleman is included despite not making his Tongan debut yet.
George Moala also made the final cut despite speculation he would miss out after receiving a five-week ban for a red card against Canada.
Several players who have switched their allegiance to Tonga also make the squad including Charles Piutau, who previously played for New Zealand.
With the changes to the eligibility rules, Tonga has managed to put together a formidable side.
According to Kefu it is the best squad that has ever assembled for the Sea Eagles.
Glasgow Warriors back-rower Sione Vailanu will also be heading to France for a second appearance on rugby’s biggest stage having run out for the Ikale Tahi at the 2019 tournament in Japan.
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Grateful to be selected for TONGA 🇹🇴 heading into my 2nd @rugbyworldcup
Proud to represent my family and all Tongans around the world. 🇹🇴🤝
Congratulations to all the boys. Malo mateaki’i Fonua. Tau ngaue malohi ange, pea tuku e ivi kotoa i Mala’e. 💪🏾 pic.twitter.com/eTVnBh9b6E
ADVERTISEMENT— Malakai Fekitoa (@MalakaiFekitoa) August 21, 2023
Tonga will compete in Pool B, which will see Vailanu and his team-mates line up against a Scotland squad containing 14 of his fellow Warriors when the action gets underway in France.
Tonga World Cup squad
Backs: Pita Ahki, Malakai Fekitoa, William Havili, Fine Inisi, Solomone Kata, Otumaka Mausia, George Moala, Manu Paea, Charles Piutau, Augustine Pulu, Sonatane Takulua, Kyren Taumoefolau, Afusipa Taumoepeau, Anzelo Tuitavuki
Forwards: Sosefo ‘Apikotoa, Adam Coleman, Vaea Fifita, Siegfried Fisi’ihoi, Feao Fotuaika, Solomone Funaki, Tanginoa Halaifonua, Sione Havili Talitui, Tau Kolomatangi, Paula Latu, Samiuela Lousi, Sitiveni Mafi, Siua Maile, Samiuela Moli, Paula Ngauamo, Semisi Paea, Ben Tameifuna, Sione Vailanu.
