Toa Samoa have named Wests Tigers pair Ativalu Lisati and Lyhkan King-Togia in their squad for Sunday’s high-stakes Pacific Championships clash with Tonga XIII at Suncorp Stadium.
Both players have been surprise inclusions, with Lisati set to make his Test debut and King-Togia named as 18th man after recovering from a minor injury.
Lisati, who made his NRL debut this season with Melbourne before joining the Tigers, replaces the concussed Jaydn Su’A in the back row. At the same time, King-Togia, a rising star in the Tigers’ system, returns after missing the opening round. Their selection adds extra edge to a contest already loaded with history and pride between two Pacific powerhouses.
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May and Tevaga headline Samoa’s reshuffle
Prop Terrell May has been listed among the reserves as he races the clock to overcome a hamstring issue, while hooker Jazz Tevaga retains his spot despite copping a head knock last week. Chanel Harris-Tavita and Benaiah Ioelu both hold their place on the bench, ready to step up if needed.
Samoa’s pack remains one of the most formidable in the competition, led by Payne Haas and Josh Papalii, with Junior Paulo anchoring the middle. The inclusion of Lisati adds fresh energy to the rotation, as coach Ben Gardiner’s side look to bounce back from a tough opening week.
Tonga, meanwhile, have recalled skipper Jason Taumalolo and powerhouse prop Addin Fonua-Blake, setting the stage for a bruising battle in Brisbane. The grudge match promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the Pacific Championships’ second week.