Teen excitement machine named for Australia's men's sevens team in Perth
Teen speedster Hadley Tonga will finally be let off the leash for Australia in the Perth Sevens world series event on January 24-26.
Tonga, a western Sydney prodigy from The King's School, has been in the national sevens system since 2023 and would have already played for Australia if not for injury.
Tonga reportedly attracted NRL interest from the Eels and Dolphins before signing a long term rugby contract designed to see him play for the Waratahs after a sevens stint.
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Hadley Tonga poses in Sydney. Getty
The 19-year-old is said to boast Corey Toole level pace.
"Hadley is one of the most exciting young players in rugby," then Australia coach John Manenti said in 2023.
"He is super fast and extremely elusive. He's only young, but I think he can make a real impact this year."
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Henry Paterson of Australia breaks away to score a try. Getty
New coach Liam Barry also welcomes back veteran playmaker Maurice Longbottom from injury while Josh Turner has replaced Nathan Lawson after his defection to the St George Illawarra Dragons.
Co-captain Henry Paterson has been ruled out with an ankle injury.
"The team have prepared well and can't wait to play their home tournament in front of family and fans in Perth," Barry said.
North Harbour coach Liam Barry in 2013. Getty
"We are stoked to welcome back Josh Turner and Maurice Longbottom to the squad. Hadley Tonga is looking to debut in Perth and that's exciting for everyone.
"Very few teams have a home tournament so the players know it comes with expectation and it's a great opportunity for us."
Meanwhile, Australia women's coach Tim Walsh has made one change to his squad with Demi Hayes returning in place of Sariah Paki (calf).
Both Australian teams finished runner-up in Perth last year.
"Perth put on a show last year and we want to join the Aussie summer party and really express ourselves out on the field," Walsh said.
"Once a year we play international sevens on home soil and there is no better time to enjoy our rugby. Bella Nasser will lead the side again after a successful first outing in Dubai.
"We will continue to develop our young guns alongside our existing world class rugby players.
"We have five more global series tournaments finishing off in a champions final in Los Angeles and it is shaping up for a rewarding year for the sevens players."
Australia's men have been drawn into Pool A alongside Argentina, South Africa and USA while the women are in Pool C with matches against China, France and Spain.
