After their landmark win over the Kangaroos,Jason Taumalolo praised his Tongan teammates for turning down bumper paydays to represent the country of their heritage.
Daly Cherry-Evans admits the increased professionalism of minnow rugby league nations has closed the gap on the all-conquering Kangaroos.
Moments after claiming a historic win over the Kangaroos,Tonga have set their sights on becoming the best of them all by winning the World Cup.
Andrew Johns said Australia disrespected their opponents,while Brad Fittler took aim at Daly Cherry-Evans and Latrell Mitchell – and didn't miss.
The Tongan win over Australia is now Jason Taumalolo's new career highlight,topping the Cowboys'thrilling 2015 grand final win.
Tonga triumphed 16-12 against Australia as the 2021 World Cup was thrown wide open and Eden Park buzzed with excitement and red and white flags.
On the same ground where they beat the Kiwis 28-22 at the World Cup two years ago,signalling themselves as a new Test powerhouse,Tonga produced another outstanding effort.
Player loyalty and the fact Israel Folau has not played rugby league in nine years made it easy for Tongan coach Kristian Woolf to pass on the sacked Wallaby.
Canberra Raiders star and Clive Churchill medallist Jack Wighton has underlined an impressive return to favour by being named in Mal Meninga's Kangaroos squad
Daniel Tupou was thrilled at the prospect of playing alongside Israel Folau for Tonga later this year,a scenario which now appears dashed.
Rugby league's international governing body is required to dutifully and faithfully follow its own rules and any interim suspension is unlawful.