Taione starts for Tonga

By Mark Stevens

Exeter Chiefs star Elvis Taione has been named in Tonga's starting XV for tomorrow's Pacific Nations Cup opener against Fiji in Suva (03:00 GMT).

The talented hooker, who has won 13 caps for his country, lines up in a team that also includes former Chiefs winger Fetu'u Vainikolo.

Tonga will be captained by veteran flanker Nili Latu, who will be joined by Hale T Pole and Viliami Ma'afu in the back row, while Taniela Moa and Latiume Fosita combine in the half-backs.

Tonga will then set off to North America for their remaining pool games against Canada and the USA.

Tonga: 15 Vunga Lilo, 14 Telusa Veainu, 13 Alipate Fatafehi, 12 Sione Piukala, 11 Fetu'u Vainikolo, 10 Latiume Fosita, 9 Taniela Moa, 8 Viliami Ma'afu, 7 Nili Latu (capt), 6 Hale T Pole, 5 Tukulua Lokotui, 4 Steve Mafi, 3 Halani Aulika, 2 Elvis Taione, 1 Alisona Taumalolo.

Replacements: 16 Sosefo Sakalia, 17 Tevita Mailau, 18 Sila Puafisi, 19 Joe Tu'ineau, 20 Viliami Fihaki, 21 Sonatane Takulua, 22 Kurt Morath, 23 Otulea Katoa.