The South Sea Islanders provide the opposition for the third of the four Dove Men Series Tests this autumn and the man charged with creating an upset is delighted to have been given the chance to do something special.
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. I never played at the Millennium Stadium but it is my team’s time and I’m sure they will cherish the opportunity,” said ‘Otai, a former No. 8 and Tonga A coach.
“Wales is a rugby-mad country and Tonga is just the same.
“It’s a huge occasion and I would like to thank the International Rugby Board for giving us the opportunity to play these tier one nations. It has helped the game and the way we develop. The gap is narrowing and these matches help us and the image of the game.”
Tonga come to the Welsh capital on the back of successive defeats to France and Romania but they showed plenty of glimpses of their potential, particularly in Paris.
And while they are known for their physical approach to proceedings, ‘Otai insists his men are far more than just a big-hitting bunch.
“Wales will expect us to be physical, that’s one of our strengths, but it’s about how well you use those and how you exploit their weaknesses,” added the Tonga head coach, who has made four changes to his starting XV for tonight’s Test.
“We’re far more organised than we used to be. We used to be very instinctive but we’re trying to bring a lot more structure to our game. It helps, but it also takes away a bit of our natural flair, so we have to find the right mix.”
Wales head coach Warren Gatland has made 11 changes for tonight’s clash with young guns Hallam Amos, Jordan Williams and Rhodri Williams all set to win their first international caps.
“There are a few Welsh players I am aware of but the reality is anybody who has been called to represent your country at that level, let alone in such a mad rugby country as Wales, will be a top player,” said ‘Otai.
“I think Wales have a very balanced side and we have to focus on how we play. To be honest, I often say to the players we are the weakness, the game is in our control.
“Our captain is a very inspirational leader of the team and if the players play to the best of their ability, then anything above that is a bonus.
“We have a fairly experienced back line as well and the two centres have been around a while – our talent is spread throughout the side and in the pack as well.”
