Wallabies legend Wycliff Palu is eagerly anticipating a return to Tonga, stressing that this visit should not be a mere "promotion" as the sport seeks to strengthen its presence in the Pacific.
A three-time World Cup participant, Palu overcame numerous injuries to achieve 58 Test caps and will coach the First Nations and Pasifika team against the Tonga President's XV in Nuku'alofa this Friday.
Last year, a First Nations and Pasifika team, led by Toutai Kefu and including players like Kurtley Beale and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, gave the British and Irish Lions a tough challenge, losing 24-19.
The newly formed team, supported by the Australian Government's PacificAus Sports initiative, visits Tonga following the recent struggles of Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby.
This trip comes after the government's substantial $600 million investment in the region's rugby league.
Among other initiatives, a significant investment in the PNG Chiefs will see them debut in the NRL in 2028, while $250 million is allocated to boost the sport in Tonga, Samoa, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea over the next decade.
At 44, Palu has spent the last ten years playing and coaching in Japan and now aims to revive rugby's role in the Pacific as he reconnects with his roots.
"I never played in Tonga and have only been here maybe four times, but to have that Tongan heritage, it's cool to come back after so long and instantly feel that connection," he shared.
"This game ... it's important it's not a one-off, not just a promotion. If we're serious about it, it's got to be consistent."
Rugby Australia has plans in place to ensure ongoing support, with part of a $90 million World Cup funding earmarked for grassroots competitions in the Pacific.
Additionally, a $150 million proposal led by the prime ministers of Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga aims to introduce two new Pacific teams to join the existing Australian Super Rugby franchises.
Moana Pasifika has struggled during its five seasons, only playing in Tonga and Samoa twice and failing to build a fan base or sponsorship presence since majority ownership switched from World Rugby in 2024.
Rugby Australia is looking to the successful Fijian Drua model, which, with its solid home support and winning track record, has made a significant economic impact.
ANZ Bank estimates the Drua contributed $73 million to Fiji's economy last season through tourism and merchandise sales.
While Palu recognizes the enthusiasm for the sport in Tonga, he acknowledges that rugby league, especially after Jason Taumalolo's high-profile switch to lead the Mata Ma'a Tonga, is capturing attention.
"The school kids, they go crazy when you just give them a ball and it'll be so cool if there was a consistent presence," he stated.
"Their league stars went and played (for Tonga) and it inspired the kids.
"For rugby to grow, it can't be Tongan kids playing in New Zealand or Australia. It has to be Tongans playing for Tonga, in Tonga.
"They don't have to be huge stars anywhere else, but in Tonga they would be massive, and that would make a difference."
Tristan Reilly, who scored against the Lions last year, will captain the team, with promising playmaker Chace Oates from Toowoomba Grammar taking the No.10, joined by his brother BJ at fullback.
FIRST NATIONS AND PASIFIKA XV: Lington Ieli, John Grenfell, Remsy Lemisio, Tavita Loughland, Sau Vaihu, Tau Tuisamoa, Davea Teoteo, Judah Saumaisue, Moses Sorovi, Chace Oates, Gage Phillips, Jarrah McLeod, Triston Reilly (capt), Angus Tagicakibau, BJ Oates. Bench: Oniti Finau, Berakah Tuifaasisina, Fred Kaihea, Malakai Taulani, Taufa Kinikini, Teina Graham, Tamarangi Tunui, Garlen Peace, Denzel Veikune.