Amanaki Lelei Mafi, born on January 11, 1990, is a professional rugby union player originally from Tonga. He is known for his versatility as a number 8 and has represented both the Japanese national rugby union team and the Sunwolves in the international Super Rugby competition. He also had a brief stint with the Bath Rugby Union team.
Mafi made his debut on the international stage representing Tonga U20 in the 2009 Junior World Cup before moving to Hanazono University in Japan in 2010.
His exceptional performance in the Top League for NTT Communications Shining Arcs earned him a spot in both the Tonga and Japan squads for the 2014 November tests. Opting to play for Japan, Mafi made an immediate impact, impressing coach Eddie Jones with his skills.
However, his career faced a setback when he suffered a career-threatening dislocated hip injury, which sidelined him for eight months.
Remarkably, he made a successful recovery just in time to be included in Japan's 2015 Rugby World Cup squad, where he continued to showcase his talents.
Following the 2015-16 Top League season, he moved to England to join Bath on a short-term loan, where he made a significant impact before his stay was cut short due to a controversial altercation with the club's medical officer.
Mafi played a vital role for Japan in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, scoring two tries, including the winning pass in their historic 34-32 victory over the Springboks.
He has continued to excel in his rugby career, participating in various competitions and earning accolades along the way. He joined the Melbourne Rebels in August 2016 for the Super Rugby season and was recognized as the Melbourne Rebels Players' Player in 2017.
Mafi extended his contract with the Rebels for the 2018 season, consistently delivering outstanding performances.
Despite facing legal issues and a court case, Mafi returned to action and joined the Sunwolves Super Rugby squad in March 2019. He was selected for Japan's squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, representing his country in 27 matches leading up to the tournament's quarterfinals.
Amanaki Lelei Mafi's career is marked by his skill, resilience, and contributions to Japanese and international rugby.
KG(30/06/2023)
Career
 |
Yokohama Canon Eagles No. 8 |
2021 - present |
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Bath Rugby Blindside Flanker |
2016 - 2016 |
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Melbourne Rebels Blindside Flanker |
2017 - 2018 |
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Shining Arcs Tokyo-Bay Urayasu No. 8 |
2013 - 2021 |
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Sunwolves No. 8 |
2019 - 2022 |
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Japan No. 8 |
2014 - 2023 |
