Maka returns for Tonga

Maka: Returns from injury

Skipper Finau Maka returns to action in one of four changes to the Tonga side to face France on Saturday.

Maka is back in the side after missing the Pacific Island nation’s 31-18 win over Japan due to a calf injury.

Elsewhere in the pack, Kisi Pulu replaces Taufa’ao Filise at prop.

In the back-line, Viliame Iongi comes in on the wing in place of Fetu’u Vainikolo while Andrew Ma’ilei gets a run at inside centre in place of Alipate Fatafehi. Vainikolo drops to the bench while Fatafehi is left out of the match day 22.

After a commendable performance against the All Blacks, Tonga suffered a disappointing loss to Canada before recovering to beat Japan last time out.

Coach Isitolo Maka admits that his men had perhaps let their concentration slip after the tournament opener against the Kiwis.

“Coming into this tournament we probably focused too much on the All Blacks and put everything into that game and left these few games alone, but we’ve definitely got our confidence back after beating Japan, we’ll get excited about playing France,” he explained.

Tonga: 15 Vungakoto Lilo, 14 Viliame Iongi, 13 Siale Piutau, 12 Andrew Ma’ilei, 11 Sukanaivalu Hufanga, 10 Kurt Morath, 9 Taniela Moa, 8 Viliami Ma’afu, 7 Finau Maka (captain), 6 Sione Kalamafoni, 5 Paino Hehea, 4 Tukulua Lokotui, 3 Kisi Pulu, 2 Aleki Lutui, 1 Soane Tonga’uiha.
Replacements: 16 Ephraim Taukafa, 17 Alisona Taumalolo, 18 Halani Aulika, 19 Joseph Tuineau, 20 Samiu Vahafolau, 21 Samisoni Fisilau, 22 Alipate Fatafehi

Date:Saturday, October 1
Venue: Westpac Stadium, Wellington
Kick-off: 18:00 (5:00 GMT)
Referee: Steve Walsh (Australia)
Assistant referees: Dave Pearson (England), Carlo Damasco (Italy)
Television match official: Matt Goddard (Australia).