The Interim-CEO of the Tonga Rugby Union says World Rugby funding was released just in time for the team's preparations for the Pacific Nations Cup which kicks off this weekend.
Tonga will play Fiji in their opener in Suva and the match comes as World Rugby released High Performance Unit and development funding that had been withheld since the start of the year over governance issues.
Fe'ao Vunipola says the Pacific Nations Cup, which doubles as World Cup qualifers, is an important tournament so the funding is timely.
"It's important that we have a good start. Thank goodness we had the funds released and the boys had a three day camp and hopefully, God blessing, they can perform to their best," he said.
"There have been some hindrances and some difficulties which made it hard for them to get together, even harder for us to get our act together. I only hope that we can all work together so that we can all push forward and try to qualify for the 2019 World Cup."
Tongan players huddle before session. Photo: Supplied
