Tough number eight Sione Lolohea will captain Tonga A in the World Rugby Pacific Challenge clash against Junior Japan in Suva, Fiji this afternoon.
The 26-year-old is expecting a tough opening game this afternoon and hoping for a winning start.
"The boys are ready," he said after the captain's run at Bidesi Park in Laucala Bay, Suva.
"We have worked hard on our set-piece - the line-out and scrum. We know Japan teams are very good in those areas and breakdown areas, the rucks and mauls."
The Tongan backs and forwards trained separately yesterday.
"I think we have practised well. But it will be a hard game for us," head coach Isi Fatani said.
"Japan has got a really good scrum. They have strong forwards and we need to stop them."
Fatani hopes the Tongan scrum will hold its ground against Junior Japan.
"We will find out tomorrow (today). But I have confidence in them (Tonga A forwards)," he said.
Fatani, who played for Suva in the local provincial rugby competitions back in the 90s while studying at the Fiji Institute of Technology, has urged Tongans living in Fiji to come in large numbers to support Tonga A.
The Tongans play the Japanese at the ANZ Stadium in Laucala Bay, Suva. Kick-off is at 3.30pm (Fiji Time).
Tonga: Vakaolafehi, Pole'o, Taimikovi Fangatua, Sailosi Malimali, Vainanuma Manu, Charlie Pahulu, Timote Paseka, Bruce Folau, Sione Lolohea, Sosefo Ma'ake, Patelesio 'One'One, Tu'ihakavalu Ika, Alfred, Hausia, Siosaia Palei, Atelea Moa, Samuela Fiefia. Reserves: Sione Vaea, Isitolo Tuumotoa, 'Aisea To'a, Solomone Lavaka, Joji Tu'ipulotu, Mateo Malupo, Fe'ofa'aki Kaumavae, Lemeki Moala