COVENTRY Rugby fly-half Pat Pellegrini has received a call-up to Tonga’s World Cup squad.
After appearing in Cov’s Premiership Rugby Cup draw with Harlequins, Pellegrini left the squad to join his international teammates in Paris, France.
The 23-year-old is a welcome addition to Tonga’s cohort after Otumaka Mausia sustained a calf injury in training ahead of his country’s defeat against Ireland.
He won his first international caps over the summer and could now feature in World Cup clashes against Scotland, South Africa and Romania.
Pellegrini said: “I was stoked to get the call. I was on the standby list but had no idea that anything had happened prior to then.
“When I didn’t make the original squad I was told by head coach Toutai Kefu to be ready as you never know what could happen and unfortunately there has now been an injury so I fly out to Paris to join the squad soon after they play Ireland.”
Coventry head coach, Alex Rae, added: “I’m delighted that Pat has got the opportunity to go to the World Cup and hope he gets the chance to play.
“Sometimes you need a bit of luck and for him this injury call-up might be that.
“Since he came back from Tonga’s summer camp we have seen a change in him and being around all those world-class players has obviously rubbed off on him.
“His preparation has gone up a level which is testament to him. It also shows you can come from a different background and have an unusual route and still find your way to the top of the game.
“It’s fantastic for Coventry too.
“We want ambitious players and coaches around us and Pat’s call-up reflects a lot of hard work not just from him but also the coaches, conditioners and physios who have worked with him.”
Pellegrini’s 2022/23 season saw him accumulate 153 points in 18 appearances for the club with his nine tries including a brilliant hat-trick during Coventry’s 47-7 win over Doncaster.
He began his club’s 2023/24 campaign by scoring a try and kicking four conversions in their 24-14 opening day Premiership Rugby Cup victory against Saracens.
