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Tonga reshuffle starting XV, overhaul bench for Canada clash
By Ned Lester
‘Ikale Tahi head coach Tevita Tu’ifua has made six changes to his starting XV to face Canada in the fifth-place playoff that kicks off round four of The Pacific Nations Cup this Saturday.
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The tournament has landed in Tokyo for the knockout stages and both Tonga and Canada face their final chance to claim a coveted win after challenging pool stages.
Two changes have been made to the Tongan tight five, including Tevita Ahokovi shifting from the blindside flank to the second row. Sosefo Sakalia also comes in to start at hooker.
John Tapueluelu has made the starting XV on the left wing, while Nikolai Foliaki shifts from fullback to the right wing, accommodating Josiah Unga at fullback.
The impact unit has seen a complete overhaul with Tau Koloamatangi joining the front row reserves, Kelemete Finau and Vutulongo Puloka rounding out the forwards and an electric backline trio of Manusiu Paea, Latu Akauola and K. Vaea set to bring the energy.
Tonga team to face Canada
1. Jethro Felemi
2. Sosefo Sakalia
3. Ben Tameifuna
4. Harison Mataele
5. Tevita Ahokovi
6. Siosiua Moala
7. Tupou Afungia
8. Lotu Inisi
9. Aisea Halo
10. Patrick Pellegrini
11. John Tapueluelu
12. Fetuli Paea
13. Fine Inisi
14. Nikolai Foliaki
15. Josiah Unga
Substitutes
16. Penisoni Fineanganofo
17. Salesi Tuifua
18. Tau Koloamatangi
19. Kelemete Finau
20. Vutulongo Puloka
21. Manusiu Paea
22. Latu Akauola
23. K. Vaea
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