‘We don’t fear them’: War of words erupts between Kangaroos and Tonga ahead of huge clash

A war of words has erupted between Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga and Tonga star Jason Taumalolo ahead of their Pacific Championships clash on Friday night.

Australia haven’t played since their biggest defeat in history, a 30-0 shellacking by New Zealand last November, and they also lost their last Test against Tonga.

That was back in 2019 when the Tongans pulled off a 16-12 upset in Auckland, but this Friday at Suncorp Stadium will be the first time the nations play on Australian soil.

Watch every game of the 2024 Pacific Championships with expert analysis LIVE with no ad-breaks during play, on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today >

The Kangaroos have historically dominated international rugby league, but Taumalolo suggested the Aussies no longer carry an aurora.

“Not really, to be honest,” Taumalolo said when asked if Tonga feared the Kangaroos.

“They’ve got a great team but so do we.

“It’s what we do on Friday night that matters the most.

“Competition at international level, not just from Australia and Tonga, but also the other nations has definitely improved over the last few years.

“It makes for a greater game of footy.”

Meninga has named six debutants against Tonga, with Tom Dearden, Mitchell Moses, Zac Lomax, Xavier Coates, Mitchell Barnett and Hudson Young all picked.

The veteran coach fired back at Taumalolo when told of his comments.

“That doesn’t worry us – we don’t fear them either,” Meninga said.

“It’s a game of footy. It is a battle. It’s international status.

“The last time we played against the Tongans they beat us, way back in 2019.

“It’s been a long time since the World Cup in 2017 when we last played at Suncorp.

“We’re coming ready to play and we’ll worry about ourselves.

“That’s pretty smart that they don’t fear us but we’re coming and we want to play our best footy.”

MORE NRL NEWS

SHOP WINDOW: Former $1m star in fight for NRL lifeline; Broncos beast’s pay day