Fiji-born Tongan Joseph Mark Tuineau may not be known by many in Fiji but he was born and bred in Newtown, Nasinu.
The former Highlanders lock is the son of a pastor who was serving in the country in the 1990’s and he is among the Ikale Tahi squad for the June Tests Series which kicks off this weekend.
36-year Tuineau says he is now ready to don the red jersey and play in front of his old time, Fijian friends and families.
“Growing up I always watch Serevi, Vunibaka on TV and I always wanted to play for Fiji when I was growing up. It’s always wonderful to come back to see friends and families and it’s always good to come back and play against Fiji.”
Joe Mark Tuineau was named after the St Mark Anglican Church in Newtown.
He moved with his family to New Zealand in early 2000.
Meanwhile, Tonga will play Georgia in the June Test opener at 1pm on Saturday at Suva’s ANZ Stadium while the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians will then take on Samoa at 3.30pm.
