The Kiwis will look to avenge last year’s controversial 25-24 loss, when they face Tonga in the Pacific Championships at Eden Park.

A victory would see them earn a repeat meeting with Toa Samoa in the final in Sydney on 9 November.

Four changes include Brisbane Broncos forward Xavier Willison, who will debut alongside cousin Te Maire Martin, named as the side’s interchange utility in jersey No. 14. Used off the bench against Samoa, Newcastle’s Phoenix Crossland starts at hooker this week, while Canberra’s Sebastian Kris is the other change, coming onto the wing for the injured Ronaldo Mulitalo.

Kickoff is at 6.05pm.

The cultural challenge during New Zealand Kiwis v Tonga XIII, round 3 of the Pacific Championships at Eden Park, Auckland.

Kiwis face the Tongan challenge at Eden Park.
Photo: Photosport