Tonga have announced a 40-man training squad including 28 overseas-based players in the lead-up to the Rugby World Cup in September.

The squad, which will be cut to 30 players "within the next few days" according to the Tongan Rugby Union, features eight players who are based in England, eight in France and four in Japan. Halfback Sikuti Vunipola, centre Epeli Taione and winger Sam Satui are currently based in Australia, and there are also four players based in New Zealand.

Lock Inoke Afeaki, who represented Tonga during the 1995 and 2003 World Cups captaining his side during the latter tournament in Australia, is likely to be battling with Worcester hooker Aleki Lutui for the captaincy this time around.

The squad was selected after a final trial period involving 44 players, 19 of whom have made the 40 man group. The 10 players to be omitted when the squad is further reduced will remain in Tonga as reserves.

Squad: Toma Toke, Mosese Moala, Taufa'ao Filise, Tevita Taumoepeau, Soane Tonga'uiha, Sateki Mata'u, Ephraim Taukafa, Aleki Lutui, Feki Moala, Paino Hehea, Inoke Afeaki, Lisiate Fa'aoso, Sione, Kalamafoni, Emosi Kauhenga, Otenili Langilangi, Hale T Pole, Finau Maka, Viliami Vaki, Chris Hala'ufia, Samiu Vahafolau, Lotu Filipine, Soane Havea, Enele Taufa, Sikuti Vunipola, Pierre Hola, Fangatapu Apikotoa, Tevita Tu'ifua, Movete Oto'ota, Epeli Taione, Kaiongo Tupou, Hudson Tonga'uiha, Suka Hufanga, Siua Taumalolo, Sam Satui, Ualosi Kailea, Seti Kiole, Aisea Havili, Viliami Hakalo, Vunga Lilo, Sione Tu'ipulotu

Pippa Davis / Eurosport