Rugby World Cup 2007: Tonga Squad

Tonga is not a big name in the Rugby world. Although they were one of 16 participating nations of first Rugby world cup tournament in 1987. They got invitation to participate in that tournament. Though their performance was not satisfactory, they could show some resistance against the eventual pool champion Wales. Except 1991 world cup, Tonga has qualified for every Rugby world cup tournament. However, they never could go beyond preliminary pool stage.

Now, ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2007, Tonga has declared their 30 man squad. Coach Quddus Fielea has focused on experienced players as the team includes many of its 2003 world cup team members. Almost all of the squad members participated in the IRB Pacific Nations Cup 2007. So, the players have had enough match practice over the years.

Inoke Afeaki is perhaps the most capped player of the squad as the upcoming world cup will be his third world cup. Inoke Afeaki played in 1995 and 2003 world cup beforehand. Some other senior members of the team are Ephraim Taukafa, Viliami Vaki, Pierre Hola, Tevita Tu’ifua and Sukanaivalu Hufanga.

Tonga will play in pool A where they will face defending champion England, former champion South Africa, Samoa and USA. So, you can easily understand that they can not even think of qualifying for the quarter final stage. From Pool A England and South Africa are most favorite to progress in the knock out stage.

The names of the squad members are given from the official website of Rugby world cup below:

Forwards: Toma Toke, Mosese Moala, Taufa'ao Filise, Soane Longopoa Tonga'uiha, Siosateki Havea Mata'u, Ephraim Taukafa, 'Aleki 'Aho Lutui, Kelekolio Paino Hehea, Inoke Unga'anga Afeaki, Lisiate Fa'aoso, 'Emosi Kauhenga, 'Otenili Langilangi, Tevita Hale Nai Tu'uhoko, Viliami Laukau Vaki, Finau Maka, 'Osaiasi 'Alu-moe-Lotu Filipine.

Backs: Soane Patita Pat Boone Sioape Havea, 'Enele Taufa, Raymond Pierre Hola, Tevita Hemilitoni Tu'ifua, 'Epeli Taione, Joseph Wilson Vaka, Sukanaivalu Ikavuka Hufanga, 'Isileli Matakaiongo Tupou, Seti Kiole, Ualosi Kailea, 'Aisea Paseisei Havili Kaufusi, Vungakoto Filimone Lilo, Sione Mone Tu'ipulotu, Hudson Tonga'uiha.