Injured Israel Folau misses out on Tonga World Cup squad

Tonga will be without Israel Folau for the Rugby World Cup after the former Australia international was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.

Ireland's Pool B opponents confirmed a 32-man squad for the Rugby World Cup yesterday, with one final player to be added closer to the tournament.

Folau is a high-profile absentee, the former Wallaby missing out due to a knee injury. The 34-year-old won 73 caps before being sacked by Rugby Australia in 2019 following a series of controversial comments around same-sex marriage.

Last year, the full-back switched international allegiance to Tonga, taking advantage of World Rugby's 2021 ruling on eligibility, but he will now miss out on playing at a second World Cup.

Tonga have benefitted greatly from that eligibility ruling, with head coach Toutai Kefu including several players who have Test experience with other countries, including former All Blacks Charles Piutau, George Moala, Vaea Fifita, Malakai Fekitoa and Augustine Pulu, while ex-Australia lock Adam Coleman is also set to feature.

Among the other notable inclusions in the Tonga squad are Toulouse and former Connacht centre Pita Ahki, dynamic Scarlets lock Sam Lousi and powerful Glasgow back row Sione Vailanu.

Tonga, who face Ireland in Nantes on 16 September, have warmed up for the World Cup win a win against Australia A, followed by two victories over Canada.

Backs: Pita Ahki, Malakai Fekitoa, William Havili, Fine Inisi, Solomone Kata, Otumaka Mausia, George Moala, Manu Paea, Charles Piutau, Augustine Pulu, Sonatane Takulua, Kyren Taumoefolau, Afusipa Taumoepeau, Anzelo Tuitavuki

Forwards: Sosefo 'Apikotoa, Adam Coleman, Vaea Fifita, Siegfried Fisi'ihoi, Feao Fotuaika, Solomone Funaki, Tanginoa Halaifonua, Sione Havili Talitui,