Lutui to captain Tonga against Japan

Worcester Warriors hooker Aleki Lutui has been recalled by Tonga to captain his country in the Rugby World Cup clash with Japan in Whangarei on Wednesday (kick-off 8.30am GMT)

The Tongans have failed to find their form so far in the tournament losing their opening two clashes against the All Blacks and then Canada. Despite Isitolo Maka facing criticism for ringing the changes ahead of the clash with the Canucks, this has not deterred him from re-jigging his side again.

The front-row has the familiar look to it with Soane Tonga'uiha, Taufa'ao Filise and new skipper Lutui reunited.

Kurt Morath is reinstated at fly-half with Taneila Moa moving back to scrum-half. Vunga Lilo takes Morath's spot at fullback with Fetu'u Vainikolo and Sukanaivalu Hufanga starting on the wing. Maka misses out on selection with Viliami Ma'afu starting at No.8 and Sione Kalamafoni coming in at blindside. Paino Hehea starts in the second-row.

Tonga: Vungakoto Lilo; Fetu'u Vainikolo, Siale Piutau, Alipate Fatafehi, Sukanaivalu Hufanga; Kurt Morath, Taniela Moa; Soane Tonga'uiha, Aleki Lutui (capt), Taufa'ao Filise, Tukulua Lokotui, Paino Hehea, Sione Kalamafoni, Sione Vaiomo'unga, Viliami Ma'afu

Replacements: Aloisio Ma'asi, Alisona Taumalolo, Halani Aulika, Joseph Tu'ineau, Samiu Vahafolau, Samisoni Fisilau, Viliame Iongi


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