Rugby was brought to the region in the early 20th Century by sailors and missionaries and the Tonga Rugby Football Union was formed in late 1923. Tonga beat Fiji 9–6 in their first test in 1924 played in the capital Nuku’alofa. However, Tonga lost the second test 14–3 and drew the decider 0–0.
Tonga Rugby Union Shirt Vintage Style
£69.95
Description
An Introduction to Tonga Rugby Union Shirt
Produced by Ellis Rugby, Tonga Rugby Union Shirt Vintage Style is the modern shirt. The Tonga rugby union team is nicknamed ʻIkaleTahi (Sea Eagles). Tonga has a pre-game war dance, named the Sipi Tau. It is a form of the Kailao (Tongan cultural dance), which was originally a war dance. Kailao was imported to Tonga from Wallis Island a French Island in the South Pacific.
In the early 20th century Rugby brought to the region by missionaries and sailors. In their first international match in 1924 Tonga defeated Fiji 9–6 staged in the capital of Tonga Nukuʻalofa. Moreover, in the second of a three match series, Fiji won 14 points to 3. The final game was a tight affair, finishing 0-0 and a drawn series.
Tonga and Fiji played three test series, every alternate year between 1924 and 1938. Traditionally, games between Pacific nations have been extremely physical. Besides, the ancient feuding wars of the Islanders have often spilt over on to the rugby field. In 1928, the final test between Fiji and Tonga abandoned due to violence.
Western Samoa toured the Island in 1954. And fifteen years later Tonga defeated the mighty New Zealand Māori team in 1969. Their next major test was in 1973. That match resulted in a disappointing 30–12 defeat against Australia in Sydney. Despair soon changed to the celebration as they defeated a strong Australia Rugby team at Ballymore in Brisbane 16–11. Scoring four tries to two in June 1973.
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Tongan culture is an important factor in the national rugby union team. The players wear a traditional Tongan tupenu at receptions or rugby events. The tupeno is similar to a sarong and wrapped around the waist and long enough to cover the knees or the shins of the legs.
Many male Tongans are often heavily tattooed and this is both cultural and historical. In Captain Cook’s time, only Tuʻi Tonga (king) not tattooed. Because it was felt he was too high ranked for anybody to touch him. Tattoos believed to shows one’s strength and also tell a story.
Manufacturing
Manufactured from satin touch 100% cotton, the Tonga Rugby Union Shirt features detailed embroidery on the vintage Tongan Crest. Also, it matches inner placket, cuffs and collar, herringbone detail on vents and velvet tape on the neck opening. In addition, there is a complex ‘2’ applique patch on the back with the subtle Ellis Rugby. Also, there is branding on the collar stand and tone on tone logo on the arm.
As well as the Tonga Rugby Union Shirt, we also offer a Tonga Rugby Union T-Shirt and Polo Shirt.
The available sizes are S – XL.
Additional information
Colour | Red |
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Size | Small, Medium, Large, X Large |
Gender | Men |
Style | Rugby Shirt |