First Nations & Pasifika XV travel to Tonga for inaugural Kaume'a Ofi Trophy clash

The First Nations & Pasifika XV have named an imposing squad for Friday’s inaugural Kaume’a Ofi Trophy match against the Tonga President’s XV in Nuku’alofa, bringing together Super Rugby talent, sevens stars and academy prospects under the banner of cultural exchange.

The fixture, supported by the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports initiative and organised in close collaboration between Rugby Australia and Tonga Rugby Union, takes its name from the Tongan phrase meaning “Close Friends” — a reflection of the programme’s broader mission to share knowledge across cultures.

Coached by former Wallaby and NSW Waratahs forward Wycliff Palu, the squad includes players of Tongan, Samoan, Fijian and Māori heritage alongside First Nations representation. Super Rugby players Moses Sorovi, Oniti Finau, Lington Ieli and recent Brumbies signing Triston Reilly are among the prominent names, with Ieli and Reilly having both featured in the programme’s 2025 edition.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent the First Nations & Pasifika XV and also represent my Fijian heritage,” Ieli said. “Rugby is part of our Pacific culture, and it brings people from different backgrounds together, and this tour is the perfect example of that.”

Sevens circuit regulars add further depth to the squad, most notably Jarrah McLeod, who also appeared in the 2025 side. Brothers Chace and BJ Oates have been named alongside each other, following their brother Kye’s involvement last year.

“To be selected in this team and have Chace there with me makes it even more meaningful,” BJ Oates said. “It’s about representing where we come from, our family and our community, but also embracing the opportunity to learn from the Tongan players and experience their culture.”

Palu is joined on the coaching staff by Eddie Aholelei and Christian Leali’ifano, while Northern Territory referee Julius Appo, himself a First Nations representative, has been appointed to officiate — extending the programme’s inclusive ethos to the match officials.

“This is a special opportunity for these players to represent their communities, their cultures and the people who have helped them get to where they are today,” Palu said. “We have a diverse group coming together, and that is what makes this team so exciting.”

The programme has grown steadily since the First Nations & Pasifika XV came within five points of defeating the British & Irish Lions in Melbourne last year, eventually losing 24-19 in a performance that drew widespread attention. Earlier in 2025, the side also competed at the Hong Kong 10s, winning the Plate title to finish third overall against established sevens outfits.