The influence of Pacific island players on global rugby is undeniable, while Australia and New Zealand can credit some of their rugby success to Pasifika players, 13 of the teams at RWC2023 have at least one player with Pacific Island heritage.
Out of their RWC2023 squads of 33 players, both Tonga and Samoa have at least 20 players born outside their respective home countries, while Fiji has five.
Romania’s squad includes six Tongan players: Tangimana Fonovai, Tevita Manumua, Jason Tomane, Hinckley Vaovasa, Taliauli Sikuea and Lama Sioeli.
Italy features three Pacific Islanders players of its own, including Samoan Monty Ioane, and Tongans Epalahame Faiva and Toa Halafihi.
