The Queensland Reds women’s and men’s teams will travel to Tonga on July 26 for historic international matches against Tonga’s Ikale Tahi sides at the Teufaiva Sports Stadium.
Supported by the Australian Government, Rugby Australia, and Queensland Reds through the Australia-Pacific Rugby Union Partnership (APRUP), this tour will be a boost to the rugby bond between Australia and Tonga.
The men’s match follows the Reds’ game against Wales on July 19. This will be the Reds women’s first overseas match in their 28-year history.
Minister Pat Conroy MP said, “Australia and Tonga share a long sporting history, and this tour further strengthens our nations’ ties.”
Reds CEO David Hanham added, “We can’t wait to deepen ties with our Tongan rugby family and strengthen our partnership.”
Tongan halfback Ana Ngahe said, “Witnessing professional women’s rugby in real life will be life-changing for our local girls.”
Tongan National Women’s Head Coach Eddie ‘Aholelei said, “This tour is great news for Tongan Rugby and the people of Tonga, thanks to the Australian Government’s support.”
Reds No.8 Harry Wilson shared, “It’s exciting to have back-to-back matches in the Queensland jersey against two very different international sides.”
