THE upside of the Rugby League International Federation's decision to rob Tonga of Fuifui Moimoi is the upsize: Moimoi's replacement is, quite remarkably, bigger than the Parramatta tank.

The decision to rule out Moimoi and Wests Tigers winger Taniela Tuiaki has created a big opportunity for a big kid. Ronnie Alovili is an 18-year-old fresh out of school who tips the scales at 112kg - and he's lost 20kg. By all reports, Alovili weighed more than 130kg before his move to Gold Coast high school Palm Beach Currumbin. And he's no slouch. He was in the top five quickest players over 40 metres in his Palm Beach Currumbin side this year. Alovili was on scholarship with the Gold Coast Titans but has switched to North Queensland.

There may be a late twist to his call-up by the Tongans - Alovili played for the Australian Schoolboys this year. We're unsure about the RLIF's feelings on this.

Glenn Jackson