Wests Tigers five-eighth Tuimoala Lolohea and new recruit Mahe Fonua have been named as part of the 24-man Mate Ma’a Tonga squad for the upcoming 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
After making his international debut for Tonga back in 2015, Lolohea also featured in the Pacific Test for Tonga earlier this year as they came from behind to down Fiji at Campbelltown Sports Stadium. The 22-year-old playmaker also played one Test for New Zealand in 2015 as part of the Kiwis’ three-Test tour of Great Britain.
Fonua, who will join Wests Tigers in 2018 from Hull FC has represented Tonga on four occasions, including twice in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.
Tonga begins its World Cup campaign on October 29 when they face Group B opponents Scotland, before facing Samoa on November 4 and New Zealand on November 11.
TONGA WORLD CUP SQUAD
- Andrew Fifita
- Mahe Fonua
- David Fusitu’a
- Siliva Havilli
- Ata Hingano
- Will Hopoate
- Konrad Hurrell
- Michael Jennings
- Solomone Kata
- Sione Katoa
- Samisoni Langi
- Tuimoala Lolohea
- Sika Manu
- Manu Ma'u
- Sam Moa
- Ben Murdoch Masila
- Joe Ofahengaue
- Tevita Pangai jnr
- Ukuma Ta'ai
- Sio Siua Taukieaho
- Jason Taumalolo
- Peni Terepo
- Daniel Tupou
- Manu Vatuvei
TONGA WORLD CUP SCHEDULE
Sunday, October 29 — Tonga vs. Scotland at Barlow Park (AUS)
Saturday, November 4 — Tonga vs. Samoa at Waikato Stadium (NZ)
Saturday, November 11 — Tonga vs. New Zealand at Waikato Stadium (NZ)
