By RNZ.co.nz. This story is republished with permission
Toutai Kefu has been re-appointed as coach of the ‘Ikale Tahi until the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
He was previously in charge between 2016 and 2019, leading Tonga to nine wins from 28 tests, and also had brief stints as a technical advisor and interim head coach.
TheĀ Kolomotu’a born KefuĀ was the “unanimous” choice of the Tonga Rugby Union’s Joint Management Committee, from a pool of 35 applicants.
New CEO Peter Harding – himself a recent appointment – said it was pleasing to see a number of ex Tonga internationals who are coaching abroad also put their names forward for the ‘Ikale Tahi job.
Covid-19 permitting, Toutai Kefu will be required to spend at least four months per year in Tonga to act as a technical director for the union, assisting and educating local coaches.
The former Wallabies number eight will start work immediately, with TongaĀ scheduled to play two Rugby World Cup qualifiers against SamoaĀ in July, with additional coaching staff and the first ‘Ikale Tahi squad in two years to be announced in due course.
