Dragons trio named in Tonga squad

Dragons players Fetuli Paea, Fine Inisi and new signing Anzelo Tuitavuki have been named in Tonga’s squad for the World Rugby Nations Cup, which begins in July and continues later in November.

Tuitavuki’s inclusion is especially notable as he is a new signing at Dragons RFC. His selection adds further international focus to the club ahead of the new season.

Tonga Prepare For World Rugby Nations Cup

Tonga are part of the Pacific-America pool in the World Rugby Nations Cup. The group includes Samoa, Canada, the USA, Chile and Uruguay, giving Tonga a competitive schedule across the July and November windows.

Head coach Tevita Tuifua said Tonga have selected a strong available squad and will use the competition to test players. He added that the wider focus remains on building towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

"We have named a strong squad with players that are available," he said.

"It will be a good opportunity to test these players and see how they go, off course with the 2027 Rugby World Cup being our main focus.

"The competition in July and November are crucial for us to use to test ourselves and hopefully we will be able to build some team cohesion and understanding."

Tonga will begin their July campaign against Zimbabwe before facing Spain and Portugal.

Tonga squad: (Props) Phil Kite, Siegfried Fisi'ihoi, Aru Moli, Fatongia Paea, Paula Latu; (Hookers) Sekope Lopeti-Moli, Sam Moli, Jay Fonokalafi; (Locks) Adam Coleman, Leva Fitita, Veikoso Poloniati, Semisi Paea; (Backrow) Lotu Inisi, Samu Tuitupou Junior, Jimmy Tupou, Otunuku Pauta; (Halfbacks) Sonatane Takulua, Augustine Pulu, Siaosi Nginingini; (Flyhalves) Patrick Pellegrini, William Havili; (Centres) Solomone Kata, Pita Ahki, Fetuli Paea, Fine Inisi; (Outside backs) Otumaka Mausia, Taniela Filimone, Anzelo Tuitavuki, Telusa Veaniu