Four players will make their New Zealand Maori debut on Saturday: Tim Bateman, Jason Eaton, Hika Elliot and Clint Newland.

Coach Donny Stevenson said the team reflected the depth of New Zealand rugby.

“The majority of our squad played in the Rebel Sport Super 14 competition this year and that is a reflection of the quality of players we have in this country.

“By competing in the IRB Pacific Nations Cup we will give another group of top rugby players the opportunity to play in a challenging five-week competition, and that is exciting for New Zealand rugby, and Maori rugby in particular,” Stevenson said.

NZ Maori Team:

1. Keith Cameron 2. Hika Elliot 3. Clint Newland 4. Ross Filipo 5. Jason Eaton 6. Liam Messam (Co-captain) 7. Tanerau Latimer 8. Thomas Waldrom 9. Piri Weepu 10. Callum Bruce 11. Hosea Gear 12. Tamati Ellison (Co-captain) 13. Jason Kawau 14. Zar Lawrence 15. Shannon Paku
Reserves: 16. Aled de Malmanch 17. Ben May 18. Isaac Ross 19. Daniel Braid 20. Chris Smylie 21. Tim Bateman 22. Glen Horton

Tonga:

1. Toke Toma 2. Ma’asi Viliami 3. Lea’aetoa Tonga 4. Afu Joshua 5. Kauhenga Emosi 6. Pole Hale (VC) 7. Latu Nili (C) 8. Filipine Lotu   
9. Havea Soane 10. Apikotoa Fangatapu 11. Lilo Vungakoto 12. Taione Epeli (VC) 13. Tonga’uiha Hudson 14. Pone Samisoni   
Reserves:15. Tu’ipulotu Sione Mone 16. Telefoni Semisi 17. Mata’u Sateki 18. Ika Samiu 19. Fifita Tevita 20. Taufa Enele 21. Poteki Vaea 22. Palu Tupou