HOSEA SAUMAKI
Saumaki began playing rugby at the age of 15. He came to Japan for university, playing rugby for Daito Bunka University.
He was included in Japan's 43-man squad in May 2016 for their June tests, but due to complications with previously representing Tonga at Sevens, was unable to gain clearance from World Rugby to represent the Brave Blossoms.
Upon graduating university in 2017, Saumaki joined Canon Eagles, making his Top League debut in the opening game of the 2017-18 season against Suntory Sungoliath. He finished the season on 10 tries in 13 appearances (10 starts), with only Panasonic Wild Knights' Akihito Yamada (12) crossing the whitewash more often in the 2017-18 Top League.
He was included in Japan's 43-man squad in May 2016 for their June tests, but due to complications with previously representing Tonga at Sevens, was unable to gain clearance from World Rugby to represent the Brave Blossoms.
Upon graduating university in 2017, Saumaki joined Canon Eagles, making his Top League debut in the opening game of the 2017-18 season against Suntory Sungoliath. He finished the season on 10 tries in 13 appearances (10 starts), with only Panasonic Wild Knights' Akihito Yamada (12) crossing the whitewash more often in the 2017-18 Top League.