Keith Senior’s Great Britain vs Tonga Invitational XIII Prediction

Tonga Invitational XIII vs Great Britain (Saturday 8am)

So the Lions are back after a 12-year absence and it’s a much different squad this time around. The inclusions of Lachlan Coote, Jackson Hastings and Blake Austin have caused a lot of debate but they are in there now and Wayne Bennett has a very good squad at his disposal.

Tonga will be formidable opposition in the first match with many household NRL names in their squad. Jason Taumalolo is arguably the best forward in the world and combined with Andrew Fifita, the Great Britain pack will know they are in a match. Luke Thompson and Alex Walmsley should counter that threat and while Tonga may just edge the outside backs, I think the game will be won in the halves.

Tui Lolohea was great for Salford at the end of the season but I’m not sure he will be able to control the Tongan team in the way Gareth Widdop and Jackson Hastings will for GB. Their creativity and game-management will give Bennett’s side the edge in what should be a fantastic Test match.

Keith says: Lions by 7