By Staff Writer
The Manu Samoa is starting its World Cup 2023 build up with a rugby tour of Europe or the Northern Hemisphere this coming November to feature three test matches in Italy, Georgia and Romania.
The last European tour by the national rugby team was in 2019.
The Manu Samoa is the defending 2022 World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup Champion from the July regional tournament played in Fiji.
Head Coach, Vaovasamania Seilala Mapusua, is looking forward to the challenge of the Manu Samoa facing
three very tough test matches against quality opponents of the northern hemisphere.
“We will look to build on the success of the Pacific Nations Cup win and keep developing how we want to play, whilst also having a good look at our talent pool for our RWC2023 team selection,” Vaovasamania revealed.
“We do not have many test matches to prepare for rugby’s pinnacle event so we are maximising on every opportunity that presents itself”
Lakapi Samoa Chairman, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, officially named the team today in Apia, Samoa.
There is a balanced mix of young and experienced players with two local players rewarded for their strong performances in local competitions.
The majority of the team are northern based, and includes eight uncapped players making their debut for Samoa including those eligible from the recent change in World Rugby eligibility rules.
With only six tests this year, the team looks to further build on the given matches.
“We are excited to be going on a what will be a difficult tour, especially after the disruptions and challenges over the past two years, Vaovasamanaia added.
“This has been the most difficult team to select with the quality of players available. We are building some quality depth and I look forward to working with this group.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity for our Manu Samoa to end what has been a good yet tough year on a high.”
The Manu Samoa coach is grateful for all the national support and encouragement from the country and supporters around the world.
The three Test matches are lined up against Italy on November 5 in Padua, Georgia on November 12 in Tbilisi, and Romania on November 19 in Bucharest.
The touring 31 players selected into the Manu Samoa side includes 8 newcomers :
1. Afaesetiti AMOSA
2. Alapati LEIUA
3. Brian ALAINUUESE *
4. Chris VUI
5. D’Angelo LEUILA
6. Danny TOALA
7. Des SEPULONA *
8. Donald BRIGHOUSE
9. Duncan PAIA’AUA *
10. Ereatara ENARI
11. Fritz LEE
12. Jeff TOOMAGA-ALLEN *
13. Joe PEREZ
14. Jonathan TAUMATEINE
15. Jordan LAY
16. Luteru TOLAI *
17. Manu LEIATAUA
18. Michael ALAALATOA (C)
19. Nephi LEATIGAGA
20. Nigel AH WONG
21. Rodney IONA
22. Sa Jordan TAUFUA
23. Seilala LAM
24. Stacey ILI
25. Steven LUATUA *
26. Talalelei GRAY *
27. Taleni SEU *
28. Theo MCFARLAND
29. Tomasi ALOSIO
30. Tumua MANU
31. Ulupano Junior SEUTENI