Konrad Hurrell has replaced the injured Solomone Kata in the one change for the Tongan side to take on New Zealand on Saturday.
The Gold Coast Titan will return to the midfield after a broken foot ended his former Warriors teammate's tournament in an otherwise unchanged starting line-up for Mate Ma'a.
"We are fortunate to have the depth to bring back someone like Konrad straight into our team for such a big match," said coach Kristian Woolf.
"He has experience in these type of games and will certainly add to our backline."
Sione Katoa will start at hooker as he did against Samoa, with Woolf also making a couple of changes on the interchange list.
Outside back Mahe Fonua and young forward Tevita Pangai junior get their first chance in the extended squad of 21.
Tonga vs New Zealand
Saturday November 11, Waikato Stadium, Hamilton – 5pm
Will Hopoate, Daniel Tupou, Michael Jennings, Konrad Hurrell, David Fusitu’a, Tuimoala Lolohea, Ata Hingano, Andrew Fifita, Sione Katoa, Sio Siua Taukieaho, Manu Ma'u, Sika Manu, Jason Taumalolo,
Reserves: Siliva Havili, Sam Moa, Peni Terepo, Ben Murdoch-Masila, Mahe Fonua, Manu Vatuvei, Ukuma Ta’ai, Tevita Pangai junior
Newshub.
