Stronger together in Nuku’alofa - a rugby rematch

The countdown is on for a match that promises high-impact rugby and heartfelt connection as Tonga’s national team – the Ikale Tahi – prepares to host the Queensland Reds in Nuku’alofa on Friday, 15 August.

For Tonga, the contest is a vital opportunity to test their game against a strong and seasoned Super Rugby side, just one week out from the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup.

For the Reds, it’s a chance to sharpen skills, deepen friendships and gain exposure to the powerful Pacific style of play.

Reds winger Tim Ryan remembers the pride and competitive intensity of the historic 2024 match – the first between the Reds and Ikale Tahi in 29 years – and is excited to be part of this year’s return match.

“Playing in Tonga last year was a great experience, and it will be again,” he says.

Forging stronger bonds through rugby

The upcoming match at Teufaiva Sports Stadium is the latest in a series of collaborative sporting moments made possible through the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports initiative.

In the women’s Super W competition, the fierce and friendly rivalry between the Queensland Reds and the Fijian Drua included a grand final showdown in 2023, with the Fijians emerging victorious. The Reds were also proud participants in Penina Pasifika’s inaugural match in 2024, meeting the combined Tonga-Samoa team again this year as part of their 2025 campaign.

The Queensland Reds’ men’s side has also built strong links across the region, travelling to Fiji to play the Fijian Drua and to Samoa in 2023 to face Moana Pasifika as part of the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

When the Reds run on to the field in Nuku’alofa in August, they will be on familiar ground.

“We certainly welcome our brothers from the Reds to our islands,” says Tonga Rugby Union CEO Aisea Aholelei. “We know this is also their home away from home.”

Rugby and relationships

The growing connection between Tonga and the Reds is being built on more than just match-day competition – it’s a partnership grounded in shared values, mutual respect and a commitment to long-term collaboration.

“Having one of the top teams in Super Rugby continue this partnership with Tonga Rugby highlights how close the ties between our two organisations have grown,” says Aholelei.

He adds that the exchange between coaches and players on both sides is also an important part of the relationship, strengthening skills and understanding beyond the games themselves.

Queensland Rugby Union Chief Executive David Hanham agrees. “Deepening the ties with our friends in Tonga is important – on and off the field.”

While rugby remains the focus, the Reds’ visit will include community activities that give young players and fans in Tonga the chance to meet the players in person, and develop their skills by learning from some of Australia’s best elite athletes.

“Moments like these stay with people,” says David Hanham, recalling last year’s clinic at Tupou College with Wallabies great George Smith. “You could see what it meant to the kids, and to George.”

A match of mutual benefit

With the Pacific Nations Cup just around the corner, the fixture is a crucial part of Tonga’s preparation – and an important step on their path to the international game’s main event: the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup.

“This is an important year for the Ikale Tahi,” says Tonga Rugby Union CEO Aisea Aholelei. “The game against the Reds will help us get ready for the Pacific Nations Cup, which we need to do well in, to qualify for the World Cup.”

For the Reds, it’s a different kind of opportunity. After the hard-fought Super Rugby Pacific season, the chance to take on a national side known for its physicality and pride offers a fresh and valuable test.

“We know the size and explosiveness of the Tongan side,” says Reds Head Coach Les Kiss. “The match offers a great challenge for us to test ourselves against a different game style and develop our squad.”

That diversity of experience is something players like Ryan value deeply.

“Some teams kick a bit more. Others, like the Tongans, back their power and running,” he says. “It’s a real positive to play against different styles and feel prepared.”

Pride, talent and Pacific strength

Tonga’s rugby legacy is world-renowned – and, with support from programs like PacificAus Sports, it continues to flourish across generations and communities.

“Tonga and Australia’s shared love of sport is a powerful connection,” says Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, His Excellency Brek Batley. "Our friendly rivalry inspires kids to reach for their dreams.”

The match in Nuku’alofa is shaping up to be one of those moments: competitive, meaningful, and unmissable. A celebration of rugby’s power to unite – and another reminder that the Pacific is bursting with talent, pride and passion for the game.