They grew up playing together, spent years as teammates and remain close mates to this day.

Tonga and Samoa, once regarded as minnows of rugby league, are now top-drawer attractions at the Rugby League World Cup.

Tonga's win over Lebanon kicked off what's expected to be a lopsided weekend in the Rugby League World Cup but there's still something to be gained amid the blow-outs. 

The Tigers are exploring the possibility of taking a home game to the deep south of New Zealand next year. Christian Nicolussi

NRL and All Blacks great Sonny Bill Williams says he could have died at any moment after doctors discovered a life-threatening heart condition.

Sonny Bill Williams has revealed he recently underwent open-heart surgery in an emotional 24-minute video posted on YouTube. Sam Worthington

Bulldogs supremo Phil Gould has confirmed Matt Burton is free to test his value on the open market before November 1.

The PNG Chiefs approached All Blacks star Damian McKenzie about a shock code switch after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Tom Decent

Follow live updates as Tonga take on Lebanon from CommBank Stadium, Sydney, in the Rugby League World Cup. Stuff sports reporters

A late omission has forced Tonga to shake-up their halves pairing for their blockbuster World Cup clash against Lebanon.