'Ikale Tahi's coach, Manakaetau 'Otai will not take Tonga's national team to next year's Rugby Union World Cup because Tonga Rugby Union (TRU)  board has refused to extend his contract when it expires next month, it was confirmed to Kaniva News this evening.

'Otai said he just received telephone call from TRU Chairperson, ‘Epeli Taione, informing him the board will not extend his contract.

‘Otai was appointed two years ago as Tonga's headcoach and was contracted till September 3, 2014. In his contract, Otai was entitled to a further two-year extension with TRU to make the decision based on his performance.

He said he is seeking opportunity from the board to discuss its decision.

The 45 year-old said he respects TRU’s decision but it was his wish that he will coach the national team in the  Rugby Union World Cup 2015.