Andrew RT Davies has today added his name to calls for special collections for Tonga at Six Nations rugby matches.
Gloucester MP Richard Graham raised issue in the House of Commons, suggesting that a special contribution for Tonga at Six Nations games would mean ‘Everyone can contribute in a sport to which Tonga have contributed so much themselves.’
Tonga has in recent weeks experienced a volcanic eruption and a tsunami, which the Tongan government described as an ‘unprecedented disaster’.
Tonga and Wales have played each other 9 times as of 17th November 2018.
There are extensive rugby links between Wales and Tonga, with Wales international Taulupe Faletau being born in Tonga and raised in Wales.
Tongan Cardiff Blues player Tau Filise has played 255 games for the Welsh capital’s rugby outfit, making him their most capped player.
There are many other examples of Tongan players playing for Welsh clubs, such as Ma’afu Fia, Ma’ama Molitika, Salesi Finau and Sililo Martens.
Andrew RT Davies said:
“There’s no doubt that Tonga has contributed a huge amount to world rugby, and in particular to the game here in Wales.
“So I think, given the awful disasters we have seen in Tonga and the issues Tonga is facing and will continue to face as a result, Six Nations games would be a superb opportunity to give back to Tonga.
“The WRU have a great history of supporting good causes, so I hope they and the other home nations can make this happen.”
