Tui Lolohea excited by international schedule

Tui Lolohea says the international game is the best way to grow the sport.

The Leeds star was part of the Tongan side that played Australia for the first time last autumn following on from their impressive performances against New Zealand and England at the Rugby League World Cup in 2017.

Tonga will get the chance to play against the Kiwis, the Kangaroos and Great Britain later this year.

Reacting to the news, Lolohea said: “It is great news for Tonga and a really positive step forward for international rugby league.

“We are taking the game in the right direction and the chance for us to play against New Zealand, Great Britain and Australia in the same calendar year is massive for us.

“The only way we can get better is to test ourselves against the tier one nations. We have only played Australia once, and that was last year, so it is great that we are repeating that so soon.

“I am sure the game against New Zealand in the summer will be another sell out. It was when we played in Hamilton in the World Cup and I am sure the Tongan fans will do us proud once again.

“It will be special to play against the Lions. I used to watch their games growing up, so it would be fantastic if I am lucky enough to play against them at the end of the season.”