Fijian born Alipate Fatafei did not think twice when he was approached to don the Tonga rugby jumper in the Pacific Nations Cup.
The robust centre originally from Nawamagi in Nadroga moved with his parents to Tonga when he was small. He speaks fluent Tongan and has even traced his Tongan heritage back to the royal Tongan family.
“I did not think twice when I was approached to try out for the team. I knew if I made the team it would not give me a chance to play for Fiji but I did not have to think about it because my heart has always been with Tonga,” he said.
Fatafei played a brilliant game against the Junior All Blacks yesterday in their last PNC match where they lost 25-47 but not without a fight.
He paved the way for two of Tonga’s tries and was strong in defence as well as attack.
“The JABs were a strong opponent but we played with our hearts. I made sure I was there for my team mates in support and line break. I was really happy with the way I played, we lost but it was a good game – I am smiling despite the loss.”
Fatafei had a short stint with the South African club Stormers but has recently signed a new deal with French club Dax for one year.
“I am taking things as it comes, do not want to get too ahead of myself and keeping myself open for better offers to come” he smilingly concluded.
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