Dolphins superstar Isaiya Katoa is set to line-up for Tonga at the Rugby League World Cup later this month with the halfback avoiding surgery on his ankle. Katoa injured his ankle in the 36-20 defeat to the Roosters and has been wearing a moon boot since the NRL preliminary final.
The talented halfback was hoping to lead Tonga into the competition after the NRL season with the nation set to pose a massive threat at this year’s World Cup. Although he injured himself in the defeat with fears the syndesmosis injury could require surgery.
This would have ended the 22-year-old’s rugby league season. Although Katoa is set to play for Tonga later this month with the halfback set to miss two to four weeks after avoiding surgery.
Tonga’s opening World Cup game is scheduled three weeks after the Dolphins’ final game. Tonga are in a tough group in the World Cup with games against England, Lebanon and Samoa set to determine if they advance.
Only two teams will advance from a combined table of Group B and C to reach the semi-final. While Tonga may be cautious and leave Katoa out for the opener against England, a win could be crucial to reach the next stage.
Katoa finished the NRL season in brilliant form and will be seen as a crucial piece of Tonga’s team if they are going to make a statement. And Tongan coach Kristian Woolf will be hoping another NRL star is available for selection ahead of the World Cup.
Robert Toia undecided over World Cup availability
Roosters star Robert Toia has been one of best centres in the game in 2026 and has helped his side reach the NRL grand final this weekend against the Newcastle Knights. Toia has played the last two State of Origin series for Queensland and represented Tonga last year in the Pacific Championships.
Toia could also represent Australia. The centre is eligible to play for the Kangaroos and views this as one of the pinnacles of rugby league. The 22-year-old is yet to confirm his decision, but squads are set to be announced after the NRL grand final. And Toia admitted he will have to make a big call.
“To be honest, I have not made my mind up,” Toia told AAP. “I just find it hard that I don’t have a decision. I want to play for Tonga, it means so much to my family, myself and my people. I went over to Tonga last year and you can see how much it means to them. But to have Australia on your resume. Just to play for Australia, in my second year, I find it such a massive achievement. That’s what I’m kind of weighing up.”
Robert Toia (pictured) is set to decide on whether to play for Australia or Tonga at the World Cup. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)
with AAP