A generation of young Tonga stars inspired by Jason Taumalolo are aiming to repay the forward superstar with victory in what is expected to be his last World Cup.
Taumalolo took international rugby league to a new level when he and Andrew Fifita led a Pacific revolution at the 2017 World Cup by turning their backs on New Zealand and Australia to play for Tonga.
Some of the Tonga stars set to line up at RLWC26 were barely in high school, such as halfback sensation Isaiya Katoa, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, who are both aged 22, Lehi Hopoate (21), Leka Halasima (20), Isaiah Iongi and Tolu Koula (both 23).
Now they get to play alongside Taumalolo as Tonga take on England in their opening game at Perth's HBF Park on October 17 before travelling to Sydney to play Lebanon on October 23 and Samoa on November 1 at CommBank Stadium.
While Katoa is the first choice halfback and Taumalolo is expected to start at prop or lock, Tonga coach Kristian Woolf has some difficult decisions to make to choose his side for the World Cup.
Secondrow alone is an embarrassment of riches with the likes of Haumole Olakau'atu, David Fifita, Halasima, Finefeuiaki and the Roosters pair of Salesi Foketi and Siua Wong among the contenders.
The Fainu brothers, Latu, Samuela and Sione, have expressed a desire to represent their Fijian heritage but are yet to have their eligibility confirmed and also qualify for Tonga.
In the lead up to the most anticipated World Cup since the first tournament in France in 1954, RLWC2026.com is giving fans the opportunity to select their teams and this week it is Tonga's turn.
Select your Tonga World Cup team.
Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League.
