Kristian Woolf is back on English soil to lead Tonga in a historic three game test series against Shaun Wane’s England.
The former St Helens head coach masterminded Tongan victories against international powerhouses Australia and New Zealand in recent years. Now, attention turns to England.
And Woolf expressed his delight that his Tongan side have been given another opportunity to face a tier one nation and how optimistic he is ahead of the upcoming series.
"I think it's a very historic tour. We're the first tier two nation to be invited over to come and play in a three test series against a tier on nation, so it's a big opportunity for us and we're really excited about it. For a long time now, we've wanted more opportunities and big games so now we have our chance, we have to take full advantage of it."
"We've started to develop skillful players in Tonga. It's why we've been able to compete against the top nations over the past few years. It's something that the whole nation is proud of."
The Tongan squad is littered with NRL stars and Woolf is confident he has selected a team capable of knocking off England on their own turf.
"I'm very happy with our squad. We have a lot of experienced players who've played a lot of international rugby and they know what it takes to prepare and win at this level. Along with that, there are some great young players who are getting their first taste of international rugby and there are lads who are playing in the NRL every week and becoming seasoned professionals over there.
“That's where Tonga rugby league is now. It's a great sign for the quality of the talent pool we have and for positive news for the future of Tongan Rugby League.
"We've started to develop skillful players in Tonga. It's why we've been able to compete against the top nations over the past few years. It's something that the whole nation is proud of.
"The England squad is full of quality and has a lot of strength and depth. It's great to see as it builds the anticipation around the series and makes us feel more excited to be involved.
"We were disappointed with the outcome of The World Cup. The number one thing I want to see is this squad playing to their full potential. I'm confident that if we do that, we'll be in contention in every game and will give ourselves the best chance. We've come here to challenge and make up for The World Cup. The team's priority is showing the fans what we are capable of."
Woolf enjoyed a highly successful three years during his time at St Helens - the former Saints boss won three consecutive Grand Finals during his three-year tenure at the club. With the first fixture of the series being at the home of Saints, Woolf spoke about what the club means to him.
"It's great to be back. Getting off the flight at Manchester and driving past St Helens, into Liverpool it brought back a lot of memories and did almost feel like I was coming home. I loved my time here; I love the town and I love the club. It's going to be great to go up against some of them and I hold them in great regard. We have a great squad, but I know it's going to be a tough challenge against England who have a great squad as well.
"Were under no illusions coming here. We know we are coming into a tough and hostile atmosphere which will only make it more difficult for us. Playing 3 games against England on English soil presents a huge challenge for us and we're ready for it.”
You can book your place to watch England take on Tonga this Autumn with tickets starting from £25 for adults and £12.50 for U16s. Get your tickets here!
