Ex-Wales centre Halaholo makes Tonga debut v Fiji

Willis Halaholo's previous game against Fiji was for Wales in 2021

Former Wales and Cardiff centre Willis Halaholo made his Tonga debut off the bench in their 32-10 loss to Fiji on Saturday.

The 35-year-old won the last of his nine Wales caps in April 2022 and can now play for the Ikale Tahi - or Sea Eagles - under global governing body World Rugby's eligibility rules.

Halaholo qualified for Wales on residency and does so for Tonga via his family heritage after a three-year absence from Test rugby.

The centre came off the bench in the 77th minute in the Pacific Nations Cup Pool A second round at HFC Bank Stadium, Suva.

New Dragons signings Fetuli Paea and Fine Inisi started for Tonga at inside centre and right wing.

Tonga beat Samoa 30-15 in their opener, while Fiji sat out the opening weekend.

Canada, United States and Japan compete in Pool B with the tournament culminating in a final on 20 September at America First Field, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Former New Zealand back Charles Piutau, who switched allegiance to Tonga before the 2023 World Cup in France, is among Halaholo's team-mates.

Halaholo joined Cardiff in 2016 and, after battling back from a serious knee injury, eventually left the Arms Park at the end of the 2023-24 season.