Newport-based recruitment and training group Acorn has struck a deal with the Tongan Rugby Union that will see the company’s logo emblazoned across the front of the team’s shirts when they play Wales this week.

The recruitment and training specialist teamed up with Tongan players and management to celebrate their partnership with a reception at the Acorn offices in Cardiff yesterday (Weds Nov 20).

The Acorn-sponsored shirts were formally presented to the Tongan players ahead of the Millennium Stadium showdown, which will be seen by millions of television viewers on Friday night.

Dan Langford, group marketing director of Acorn, said: “International days in Wales are always fantastic occasions, which capture the imagination of everyone in Wales, as well as rugby fans all over the world.

“It’s great to think that through this partnership with the Tongan side Acorn will be a part of it.

Epi Taione, former Tongan international and now president and executive chairman of the Tonga Rugby Union said: “This partnership with Acorn is typical of the relationships rugby attracts around the world.

“We are delighted to be back in Wales and honoured to link up with one of Wales’ leading companies in this way.”

Acorn, whose UK headquarters are based at the Celtic Springs Business Park in Newport, and has 35 branches across Wales, the West Country, North West of England, London and the South-East, has recently recorded its eight best revenue earning weeks in the company’s 20-year history.