Liam Barry, the new head coach of the Australian men’s Sevens team, has named 19-year-old Hadley Tonga for his debut at the Perth SVNS at HBF Park from January 24-26.
Tonga is one of three new additions to the squad for the event.
Tonga, known for his explosive speed, has battled a series of injuries since joining the program in 2013, but his talent shone through at Kings School. His selection marks a milestone after a challenging injury period.
Tonga, of Tongan and Italian descent, previously played for the Australia U18 side and is set to excel in the Sevens circuit.
Joining Tonga in the squad are Sevens veteran Maurice Longbottom and Josh Turner. Longbottom missed the previous two rounds due to injury, while Turner returns following the departure of Nathan Lawson.
Team captain Henry Hutchison will lead the side alongside co-captain Henry Paterson, who is recovering from an ankle injury and will return for the Canada event next month.
Barry expressed excitement about the home tournament, saying, “We are stoked to welcome back Josh Turner and Maurice Longbottom to the squad while Hadley Tonga is looking to debut in Perth and that’s exciting for everyone.”