Tonga tackles Australia in a historic rugby league Test.
Rugby league’s rising powerhouse Mate Ma’a Tonga faces Australia in a historic clash at Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday.
Powered by Jason Taumalolo and Andrew Fifita, Tonga became the feel-good story of rugby league when they progressed to last year’s World Cup semi-final.
They have carried that momentum into 2018 by arranging a maiden encounter with world champions Australia, who are smarting after a shock loss last week.
Mal Meninga’s Kangaroos will look to bounce back from that surprise two-point defeat to New Zealand when they meet Tonga for the first time in front of a sold-out Auckland crowd.
Luke Keary is a certain starter for the Kangaroos after recovering from a concussion and training strongly in Friday’s captain’s run.
Meninga said the Sydney Roosters five-eighth had shown leadership qualities during preparations despite being the most inexperienced player in the team.
“He’s obviously disappointed he didn’t finish the game last week,” Meninga said.
“He’s been all about making sure that he’s fit and healthy and that’s really important. At training he’s been terrific. He’s a great leader, to be honest with you.
“He’s played in two premierships already, one with Souths and the Roosters. Obviously there’s something special about him.
“I’m really confident in the footy team and he’s going to make a terrific contribution tomorrow night for us.”
The pressure is on the Kangaroos to avoid back-to-back defeats in the same calendar year for the first time since 1978.
Follow all the action as Tonga clashes with Australia in our live blog below.
SCHEDULE:
Tonga v Australia, 5.45pm AEDT
HOW TO WATCH:
Tonga v Australia will be broadcast live from 5.30pm on Fox League and Channel 9’s GEM
