New Zealand have added Kalyn Ponga to their bench for the Rugby League World Cup semi-final, replacing middle forward Leo Thompson.
Ponga fractured his forearm in the tournament's opening match against Australia, less than three weeks ago.
Kiwis coach Stacey Jones has yet to indicate whether, or how, he will use the star fullback against Tonga.
Tonga have lost centre Robert Toia to a knee injury before what the team regards as the most important match in its history.
Early reports described the injury as minor, but it raises concern because the 22-year-old has already had two ACL reconstructions.
Toia has been among Tonga's strongest performers, and the injury could also put his availability for next weekend's final at risk if Tonga advance.
After the semi-final teams were confirmed on Friday night, coach Kristian Woolf named Paul Alamoti in Toia's place, alongside Tolu Koula in the centres.
Tonga face New Zealand at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday for a place in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup final.
Kick-off is at 8:05pm.