Tevita Tatola, a prop for the Rabbitohs, is focused on returning from injury with a clear goal: donning a Tongan jersey for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.
Since 2023, Tatola has been sidelined from international play, feeling the frustration as injuries thwarted his participation at crucial times.
A serious foot fracture limited him to just six games in 2024, while a subsequent shoulder issue prematurely ended his 2025 season after 18 matches with the Rabbitohs.
Now at 29 and fully recovered, Tatola is back in contention, eager to represent Tonga on a grand stage.
"The World Cup would obviously be awesome if I get a call-up," Tatola remarked during an interview with the RLWC website.
"At the moment, my sole focus is playing for the Rabbitohs and just trying to string together back-to-back games and stay on the pitch as long as I can, but it was definitely tough watching from the sideline.
"There wasn't much I could do, I was injured, so I wasn't a part of the team, but I am just looking forward to this year, and hopefully I get the call up for the World Cup."
The excitement for Tongan rugby has reached new heights.
Last year's Pacific Championships attracted an impressive crowd, with over 44,682 fans at Suncorp Stadium to witness Tonga face Samoa.