Seven new caps have been included in the 'Ikale Tahi rugby squad for tests against Wales, Samoa and Fiji.
Crusaders and former New Zealand Under 20s halfback Leon Fukofuka is poised to make his test debut against Wales, as part of the 'Pasifika Challenge' double header at Eden Park next Friday.
Crusaders halfback Leon Fukofuka has been selected by Tonga. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Former Australian sevens representative 'Atieli Pakalani has also been included after missing last year's Northern Tour through injury, while Auckland-based Kiti Taimani is another new face to the outside back ranks.
Waikato props Latu Talakai and and Siegfried Fisi'ihoi - a Chiefs Super Rugby player - will add some beef to the front row options and are joined by provincial teammate Leva Fifita in earning their first call-up to the Tongan squad.
Siegfried Fisi'ihoi playing for the Chiefs against Wales in 2016. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The other new cap is Northland loose forward Michael Faleafa, while Racing 92 prop Ben Tameifuna is set to finally play his first test, after multiple call-ups and withdrawals from previous 'Ikale Tahi teams.
Head coach Toutai Kefu said Bristol midfielder Siale Piutau will continue as captain following their unbeaten November tour, which was capped by a memorable victory over Italy.
Tonga rugby coach Toutai Kefu Photo: Photosport
Former captain Nili Latu is back in the team despite only recently returning from a long injury layoff, while 21-test prop Tevita Mailau is out after announcing his retirement from international rugby.
Toutai Kefu said number eight Tevita Koloamatangi, flankers Maama Vaipulu and Sione Kalamafoni and Leicester Tigers fullback Telusa Veainu were ruled out through injury.
'Ikale Tahi Squad:
Ben Tameifuna Racing 92
Latu Talakai Waikato
Siegfried Fisi'ihoi Waikato
Sila Puafisi CS Brive
Siua Halanukonuka Highlanders
Sione Lea Taranaki
Paula Ngauamo Mont De Marsan
Suliasi Taufalele Counties Manukau
Dan Faleafa SC ALBI
Leva Fifita Waikato
Steve Mafi Castres
Jack Ram Doncaster Knights
Michael Faleafa Northland
Nili Latu Newcastle Falcons
Sione Tau Agen
Valentino Mapapalangi Leicester Tigers
Leon Fukofuka Crusaders
Sonatane Takulua Lapaha Newcastle Falcons
Kali Hala Counties Manukau
Latiume Fosita Auckland
Siale Piutau Bristol
Tevita Taufui Waikato
Viliami Tahitua Yamaha
'Atieli Pakalani Southern Districts
Cooper Vuna Worcester Warriors
David Halaifonua Gloucester
Nafi Tu'itavake Northampton Saints
Kiti Taimani Vaini Grammar TEC
Extended Training Squad:
Sione Lolohea Sila Pelu Ua
Phil Kite Brisbane NRC
Harrison Mataele North Harbour
Otenili Moala Waikato
Vainanuma Manu Marist Apifo'ou
Sefo Ma'ake Havelu Bulldogs
Tuihakavalu Ika Toloa Old Boys
