Rugby World Cup 2015: Aleki Lutui returns to Tonga squad

Experienced hooker Aleki Lutui has returned to the Tonga squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup in England.

The 37-year-old forward missed out on a place in the side that finished as runners-up to Fiji at the Pacific Nations Cup last month.

However, the 36-times capped Lutui, who made his international debut in 1999, has returned to the fold, along with Gloucester duo David Halaifonua and Sione Kalamafoni, Samisoni Fisilau, Paula Ngauomo and Will Helu.

There are also places for Telusa Veainu, Viliami Tahitu'a and Sosefo Ma'ake, who got made their bows at the Pacific Nations Cup.

Tonga line up in Pool C alongside New Zealand, Argentina, Georgia and Namibia and will be looking to make it into the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

Squad in full:

Forwards: Tevita Mailau, Alisona Taumalolo, Soane Tonga'uiha, Halani Aulika, Sila Puafisi, Elvis Taione, Paula Ngaumo, Aleki Lutui, Tukulua Lokotui, Joseph Tuineau, Steve Mafi, Opeti Fonua, Hale T-Pole, Nili Latu, Jack Ram, Viliami Ma'afu, Sione Kalamafoni.

Backs: Sonatane Takulula, Samisoni Fisilau, Sosefo Ma'ake, Kurt Morath, Latiume Fosita, Sione Piukala, Siale Piutau, Viliami Tahitu'a, Fetu'u Vainikolo, Telusa Veainu, Tevita Halaifonua, William Helu, Vungakoto Lilo.