It was a matter of when, not if, Soine Takai was recognised for higher honours and now is the time, named in the Ikale Tahi Tongan national team for their upcoming Tests.

Sione has been playing at the Ranga since finishing Edgewater College and has been captaining the premiers in 2024.

It has been a big 12 months for the loose forward, as he was a strong performer for the Auckland Bs at the end of last year and trained pre-season with Moana Pasifika earlier this year.

He joins former Ranga back Malakai Fekitoa playing for Tonga in July. They are set to play two tests in Tonga, against Italy and Spain.

“Sione has been at the club for a while, and I knew straight away he was a talent. He is a hard worker and a quick learner, and he is going to go and do us all proud,” said Coach Boof.

While we are sad to see Sione miss the remainder of the premier season, everyone at Pakuranga is right behind him.

Tonga v Italy Thursday 11 July 11pm

Tonga v Spain Thursday 18 July 11pm

Article added: Monday 24 June 2024