Former Tonga and Blues halfback Taniela Moa has died at the age of 36.
Moa’s death was confirmed by the Tonga Rugby Union which did not specify a cause.
“A stalwart of Ikale Tahi Tonga rugby who will now have his name etched among the echelons of the legendary greats,” Tonga Rugby said in a statement.
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https://twitter.com/AucklandRugby/status/1471312910257246208?s=20https://twitter.com/manusamoa/status/1471311997518053379?s=20https://twitter.com/ChiefsRugby/status/1471338648092090368?s=20
“Such sad news to receive about the passing of Taniela Moa.
“We would like to send our love and deepest condolences to his family through this sad and tragic time.
“May he fly high among God’s army and look over you all.”
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A physical No.9, Moa played 21 Tests for Tonga and featured in one of the greatest upsets in Rugby World Cup history, the 19-14 win over eventual finalists France in 2011.
Moa also played Super Rugby for the Blues and Chiefs and was a key player for Auckland in a successful era in New Zealand’s domestic competition.
He was also in the mix to play for the All Blacks in 2008 when he toured South Africa as injury cover, but did not win a cap.
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