Tonga head coach Toutai Kefu has announced his squad for the upcoming Rugby World Cup in France with outside back George Moala included despite being under suspension.
Former All Blacks centre Moala was banned recently for a dangerous tackle on Canada counterpart Ben LeSage during a friendly in Nuku’alofa earlier this month.
Suspension reduced
Moala, who plies his trade at Top 14 outfit Clermont Auvergne, initially received a 10-week ban but it was reduced to five weeks and Kefu has decided to name him in his squad.
Kefu has named 32 players and is set to finalise his squad by naming one extra player to complete the 33-man squad for the global showpiece in France at a later stage.
According to a press statement released by the Tonga Rugby Union, former Wallabies full-back Folau (knee) and Tonga outside back Telusa Veainu (hamstring) have been ruled out of the World Cup after suffering recurrences of existing injuries.
Meanwhile, another former Wallaby, second-row Adam Coleman, has also been included in the squad although he is yet to represent the ʻIkale Tahi at Test level.
Kefu is excited to lead his troops into the World Cup where they will be competing in Pool B against defending champions South Africa, Ireland, Scotland and Romania.
“This is the squad that will be taking us to the 2023 Rugby World Cup,” he said. “It is a squad I’m very proud to coach and I know all the players are proud to represent their families and all Tongans around the globe with pride.
“Unfortunately a couple of our brothers, Isileli Folau and Telusa Veainu won’t be joining us due to existing injuries. George Moala, with the reduction of his suspension to five weeks, will be able to join the squad mid-campaign.”
Tonga’s opening match at the Rugby World Cup is against Ireland in Nantes on September 16.
Tonga Rugby World Cup squad
Forwards: Sosefo ‘Apikotoa, Adam Coleman, Sione Havili Talitui, Vaea Fifita, Siegfried Fisi’ihoi, Fe’ao Fotuaika, Solomone Funaki, Tanginoa Halaifonua, Tau Koloamatangi, Paula Latu, Sam Lousi, Steve Mafi, Siua Maile, Samiuela Moli, Paula Ngauamo, Semisi Paea, Ben Tameifuna, Sione Vailanu
Backs: Pita Ahki, Malakai Fekitoa, George Moala, William Havili, Fine Inisi, Solomone Kata, Otumaka Mausia, Manu Paea, Salesi Piutau, Augustine Pulu, Sonatane Takulua, Kyren Taumoefolau, Afusipa Taumoepeau, Anzelo Tuitavuki
READ MORE: All the Rugby World Cup warm-up fixtures and results
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