As the Pacific Championships group stage enters its final week, Tonga and New Zealand face a decisive clash for a spot in the Pacific Cup final. Following their defeat to the Kangaroos, New Zealand finds itself in a must-win situation against Tonga.
Tonga coach Kristian Woolf has made only one adjustment for the Mt Smart Stadium match on Saturday, replacing South Sydney forward Keaon Koloamatangi, who is unavailable due to family commitments, with Sydney Roosters’ Siua Wong.
Similarly, the Kiwis have minimal changes, bringing back Newcastle prop Leo Thompson, who returns from suspension, with Jordan Riki stepping aside. Kiwis coach Stacey Jones has maintained Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad at five-eighth, keeping Kodi Nikorima on the bench.
This encounter marks the first meeting between Tonga and New Zealand since 2022, and the winner will advance to face Australia in the Pacific Cup final at CommBank Stadium on November 10th.
The losing team will play the winner of the Pacific Bowl, likely Papua New Guinea. With both sides eager to secure their place, Saturday’s showdown promises intense rugby league action.