Tonga Head Coach Isitolo Maka has revealed the starting XV who will make Tonga’s debut into the Churchill Cup on Wednesday evening at Esher Rugby.
Kisi Pulu, of Top 14 side Perpignan, will start at tight-head prop and will captain the side against USA, KO 1730.
In the opposition camp, USA boss Eddie O’Sullivan has rung the changes following Saturday 87-8 defeat to England Saxons.
Only wing Colin Hawley and try-scoring second row Scott Lavalla are retained while Sevens player Paul Emerick – who also played in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, is brought in at centre. There is a new halfback combination in Tim Usaz and Nese Malifa.
CaptainTodd Clever returns to the starting line-up after sitting out of his side’s 87-8 thrashing by England Saxons, while former captain Mike Petri moves to the bench.
Tonga: M.Malupo; V.Helu, S.Hufanga, E. Siua, V. Iongi; K. Mortath, S. Havea; T. Lea’Aetoa, I. Ma’Asi, K. Pulu, S.Timani, E.Kauhenga, P.Mapakaitolo, P.Koloamatangi, V.Ma’Afu. Rep: A.Halangahu, O.Fainga’Anuku, J.Afu, P.Kaho, D.Mrath, E.Paea, S.Taumoepeau.
USA: R.Suniula, C. Hawley, P.Emerick, A.Suniula, K.Swiryn; N.Malifa, T.Usasz; M. Moeakiola, C. Biller, S. Pittman, L. Stanfill, I. Basauri, T.Clever (C), N. Johnson. Rep: P.Thiel, E.Fry, J.Van Der Giessen, P.Danahy, M.Petri, T.Enosa, T.Hall