Folau Fakatava’s last All Blacks appearance in 2022 occurred after tearing his Anterior Cruciate Ligament for the third time.
Since then, he has been making every effort to ensure his return to playing.
The 25-year-old also missed selection for the All Blacks XV in 2024.
However, Fakatava can return to the international arena in the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup should he wish to and should he earn the call-up, a report by the Rugby Pass said.
“He would no doubt be a huge asset for the ‘Ikale Tahi, where he could follow in the footsteps of fellow former All Blacks like Malakai Fekitoa and Vaea Fifita”, it said.
“Even if he doesn’t suit up for the Tongan side this year, Fakatava may well be present for the team when they look to assemble their all-star cast at the next World Cup”.
‘Ikale Tahi pledges
After its European tour last year, Tonga experienced a disheartening state, receiving nine consecutive losses out of 10 games, raising significant concerns and increasing the pressure on coach Tevita Tuifua as he sought to turn the team’s fortunes around.
Tonga’s only win was against Canada in the play-off for the fifth spot in the Pacific Nations Cup in September.
However, Tu’ifua reportedly considered bringing in more experienced players, especially those playing club rugby in Europe, for this year’s test rugby season.
Tuifua told RNZ Pacific that he wanted to ensure he had the right mix of players, while also making sure the coaching staff had a strong pool of players to work with.
He said the coaching staff had already discussed their plans with Tonga Rugby Union to ensure the national squad was able to play with consistency next year and beyond.
The focus this year had been on lifting the skills and rugby knowledge of their local-based players by giving them an opportunity to play for the ‘Ikale Tahi in test matches, he said.
This meant many experienced overseas-based players plying their trade in Europe were left out, he said.
“We wanted to make sure that we are able to have our own pool of local players and those playing in New Zealand and Australia who we can call upon,” Tuifua said.
“That is important for our growth moving forward. We have seen what happens when the Europe-based players are not available and we have to run around to find players.
“So our strategy is to upskill our players and have that pool of players ready when we need them.”
