‘We were nervous’: Why Tonga players feared for Haumole Olakau’atu before England clash

Tonga forward Haumole Olakau’atu successfully led the nation's pre-match Sipi Tau for the first time during their 30-12 victory over England in Perth, despite teammates fearing he would make mistakes after repeated rehearsal blunders. Teammate Isaiya Katoa and coach Kristian Woolf confirmed Olakau'atu stumbled through the words several times during practice, including the captain's run, before flawlessly delivering the ceremony on matchday.

The Manly Sea Eagles back-rower took over leading the traditional challenge following the retirement of long-time leader Siliva Havili. Olakau’atu will lead the Sipi Tau again when Tonga faces Lebanon at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta, near where he grew up.