Tongan Rugby World Cup hero dead at age 36

2 years ago 339

Former Tonga and Blues halfback Taniela Moa has died astatine the property of 36.

Moa's decease was confirmed by the Tonga Rugby Union which did not specify a cause.

"A stalwart of Ikale Tahi Tonga rugby who volition present person his sanction etched among the echelons of the legendary greats," Tonga Rugby said successful a statement.

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"Such bittersweet quality to person astir the passing of Taniela Moa.

"We would similar to nonstop our emotion and deepest condolences to his household done this bittersweet and tragic time.

"May helium alert precocious among God's service and look implicit you all."

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Taniela Moa of Tonga celebrates beating France successful the 2011 Rugby World Cup successful Wellington. (Getty)

A carnal No.9, Moa played 21 Tests for Tonga and featured successful 1 of the top upsets successful Rugby World Cup history, the 19-14 triumph implicit eventual finalists France successful 2011.

Moa besides played Super Rugby for the Blues and Chiefs and was a cardinal subordinate for Auckland successful a palmy epoch successful New Zealand's home competition.

He was besides successful the premix to play for the All Blacks successful 2008 erstwhile helium toured South Africa arsenic wounded cover, but did not triumph a cap.

Taniela Moa of the Blues makes a interruption against the Reds successful 2009. (Getty)

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