IKALE TAHI SQUAD GO INTO CAMP

The Tongan Government has granted extra funds to the TRFU in order for the Ikale Tahi to go into Camp in New Zealand prior to the RWC. The squad, which is expected to be announced by Coach Jim Love on Tuesday August 30th, will assemble in Auckland for a fitness test prior to heading to Rotorua for their two week Camp.

During the two-week Camp the team will have two hit-outs against provincial teams as part of their preparation.

The city of Rotorua has welcomed the news, with a Mayoral reception being organised, in recognition of their local son Jim Love and his team. The “Ikale Tahi” will be the adopted team for the city of Rotorua during the RWC. The squad has been given free access to the International Stadium, Sports Drome Swimming Pool and many other facilities, to assist with their preparation. The community, especially children, have been encouraged to attend and watch the training sessions.

At the conclusion of the Camp, the Squad will travel to Tonga on September 30th for an official Government reception, and depart for Australia on October 2nd.  Then they will head straight to Canberra, where they will be based for their opening encounter with Italy on October 15th. This will be followed by Wales on October 19th