In-the-news Tonga captain Addin Fonua-Blake is out of the third and final Test against England after the Warriors confirmed he would remain with the club in 2024 following a request to be released from his contract.
Warriors CEO Cameron George confirmed that that the 27-year-old prop had requested an immediate release on compassionate grounds but would remain with the team in 2024 while assessing his personal circumstances for 2025 and beyond.
Fonua-Blake’s absence from the clash at Headingley Stadium is not related to that development – a groin injury instead the culprit with fullback Will Hopoate expected to be confirmed as the new captain.
The other big news when coach Kristian Woolf named his side was the inclusion on the bench of 18-year-old Wests Tigers prodigy Latu Fainu. He replaces Deon Taupa in the 14 jersey – a huge moment in the teenager’s short career.
In the starting side, Hame Sele is Fonua-Blake’s replacement and Keaon Koloamatangi takes the place of Felise Kaufusi who moves back to the bench.
Sydney Roosters youngster Siua Wong is in jersey 18 meaning that, as things stand, Fainu is the only debutant as Tonga look to avoid a series whitewash.
England coach Shaun Wane has chosen not to keep the opposition guessing over the make-up of his halves with captain George Williams back from suspension.
Mikey Lewis is not in Wane’s 19, named in alphabetical order, meaning Williams will partner Harry Smith. Sydney Roosters’ Victor Radley is out of the game due to a groin injury alongside Tommy Makinson (wrist) and Toby King (ankle).
Ben Currie, Josh Thewlis, Tyler Dupree, Robbie Mulhern and new Canberra Raiders signing Morgan Smithies come into the squad.
I’m really pleased to be able to give everyone who was named in my original squad the opportunity to feature in this series,” Wane said.
“Robbie, Tyler and Ben have all had impressive seasons at club level and deserve their call-up into the side for this final game against Tonga.
“It’s great to be able to welcome George back into the fold as England captain. Mikey has been brilliant in the opening two games, but I had always said George would come back in once his suspension was served.
