Tonga’s Bold Vision for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup
With the 2026 Rugby League World Cup now less than a year away, the conversation around international rugby league is starting to heat up, and all eyes are once again on who might finally knock Australia off their perch. Among the nations quietly building momentum is Tonga, a side that has steadily grown into one of the most feared teams in the international game, especially when it comes to raw power and physicality.
After pushing all the way to the final of the 2024 Pacific Championships, it’s clear that Tonga’s progress hasn’t gone unnoticed. A potential 24-man squad for the 2026 World Cup is already being talked about, and what stands out immediately is how different it looks compared to the group that ran out in the 2022 tournament. Only 13 players from that earlier squad are expected to return, which says a lot about how much this team is evolving.
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This projected squad is shaping up as a fascinating mix of old and new. On one hand, you’ve got established stars like Addin Fonua-Blake and Jason Taumalolo, players whose presence alone changes the tone of a match. Taumalolo is tipped to wear the captain’s armband, and his leadership, experience, and relentless work rate through the middle would be central to Tonga’s World Cup hopes. Alongside him, Fonua-Blake’s dominance in the front row is expected to anchor what is already being described as one of the strongest forward packs in the tournament.
At the same time, new faces are being introduced, signaling a clear generational shift. Young talents such as Isaiah Iongi and Robert Toia are being tipped to feature prominently, bringing speed, energy, and unpredictability to the backline. Their inclusion suggests that Tonga isn’t just relying on power anymore, but is also investing in creativity and strike across the park.
One of the biggest talking points, though, surrounds Keaon Koloamatangi. His status remains uncertain after he represented Australia during the 2025 Ashes Series, despite previously turning out for Tonga at the last World Cup. Whether he is available or eligible could significantly affect how the squad finally takes shape.
Overall, this predicted lineup feels like a statement. It shows that Tonga isn’t simply aiming to compete; they are aiming to contend. With hardened veterans, emerging stars, and a forward pack capable of matching anyone on their day, the groundwork is clearly being laid for a serious World Cup run. If everything clicks at the right time, Tonga may not just be part of the conversation in 2026 — they could be right at the center of it.
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