Tonga qualify for World Cup after dismissing Hong Kong

Tonga have secured their place at the 2023 Rugby World Cup after beating Asian champions Hong Kong.

The Tongans romped to a 44-22 win in the Asia/Pacific play-off on Saturday at Australia's Sunshine Coast Stadium to claim their spot in France's showpiece tournament next year, marking their ninth appearance at a World Cup.

The ‘Ikale Tahi’ will begin their RWC 2023 campaign against Ireland in Nantes on 16 September, before playing Scotland in Nice on 24 September, South Africa in Marseille on 1 October and finishing against Romania in Lille on 8 October.

Hong Kong, who are being led by former Dragons player Lewis Evans in the coaching hot seat, have never qualified for the World Cup, whereas Tonga have missed out on just one occasion since the tournament's inception.