A great applaud in the Ikaletahi Camp last night in the city of trees, Sendai Japan when Coach Quddus Fielea announces that Tonga moved from number 13 to number 12 in the latest IRB world ranking. “This great applaud hymns a new beginning to our 2008 Pacific Six Nations Cup campaign,” Coach Fielea proudly said. Although the side lost their opening clash with the NZ Maori, they are confident that they will finish this campaign on a high pushing the team into the top 10. This is the best ranking Tonga has ever been.

Mr. Fielea welcomed 2007 RWC sensation Pierre Hola back to the squad as they arrived in Narita airport on Monday. “We are happy to have Pierre back in the team and already training with the boys. He is one of the most important links in the backs,” Back coach Semi Taupeaafe admitted.

Pierre and several other members of the team plays their rugby hear in Japan for quite sometimes now, they know a lot about the Japanese and their game. “This certainly gave us a bit of an insight to work on ahead of the game on Sunday, but surely they are doing the same,” Fielea said.

This week’s lineup includes three players on debut; Tupou Palu, Sione Lavaka and Sione Timani all made their way to the Ikaletahi  through this year’s PRC.  Pierre Hola will wear his usual number 10 jersey and fullback Vunga Lilo will be wearing the number 15 jersey.

“Inclusions of debut winger Tupou Palu and Sione Lavaka will add speed and depth to the backline,” Taupeaafe concluded


Ikaletahi Team; Semisi Telefoni, Viliami Ma’asi, Tonga Lea’aetoa, Josh Afu, Emosi Kauhenga, Tevita Fifita, Nili latu, Lotu Filipine, Soane Havea, Pierre Hola, Sione Lavaka, Kaiongo Tupou, Hudson Tonga’uiha, Tupou Palu, Vungakoto Lilo

Reserves; Makoni Fimau, Sateki Mata’u, Samiu Ika, Sione Timani, Enele Taufa, Fangatapu Apikotoa, Sione Mone Tu’ipulotu.