Champions Cup winner a shock omission from Tonga squad as team-mate makes it

Fresh from helping Bordeaux-Begles lift their second Investec Champions Cup title in a row, tighthead prop Ben Tameifuna has been left out of Tonga’s 29-man squad for the upcoming World Rugby Nations Cup.

The 33-year-old played his part in Bordeaux’s historic triumph over Leinster in Bilbao last month, making an impact from the bench with a number of crucial turnovers as Yannick Bru’s side retained their title.

His omission comes as a surprise given he has remained a regular fixture for the French side and recently crossed for a try in Bordeaux’s Top 14 victory over Toulon.

While Tameifuna misses out, his club-mate Adam Coleman has been included by head coach Tevita Tuifua. The former Wallabies lock switched his international allegiance in 2023 and is one of the most experienced players in the squad.

There is further star quality in the backs, with Toulouse centre Pita Ahki and Leicester Tigers midfielder Solomone Kata both named.

Fixture

Top 14

Bordeaux

31 - 34

Full-time

Clermont

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The squad will assemble ahead of three July internationals in the Nations Cup, with Tonga facing Zimbabwe on July 5, Spain on July 12 and Portugal on July 19.

“We have named a strong squad with players that are available,” Tuifua said.

“It will be a good opportunity to test these players and see how they go, of 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.”

The Nations Cup forms a key part of Tonga’s preparations for Australia 2027, with the Pacific island nation looking to build consistency and combinations against a range of international opposition over the next 18 months.

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

Back-row: Lotu Inisi, Samu Tuitupou Junior, Jimmy Tupou, Otunuku Pauta

Scrum-halves: Sonatane Takulua, Augustine Pulu, Siaosi Nginingini

Fly-halves: Patrick Pellegrini, William Havili

Centres: Solomone Kata, Pita Ahki, Fetuli Paea, Fine Inisi

Outside backs: Otumaka Mausia, Taniela Filimone, Anzelo Tuitavuki, Telusa Veaniu