Toa Samoa head coach Ben Gardiner has announced the squad that will carry Samoa’s hopes at the Rugby League World Cup as the team prepares for its opening match.
Gardiner said rugby league had a special ability to bring people together and acknowledged Samoans around the world ahead of the tournament.
“As we build towards our first World Cup game, we want to thank all Samoans around the world for their ongoing support. Your blessings and prayers are welcomed,” Gardiner said.
He said the team was looking forward to seeing Samoa’s colours and flags throughout the tournament.
“As we pull on the blue jersey in Rugby League Samoa’s 40th anniversary year, we carry the pride and resilience of generations of players before us, while seeking to inspire the future of our game and our country,” he said.
The squad includes a mix of experienced internationals and emerging players, with several NRL stars named alongside players based overseas.
Toa Samoa World Cup squad
* Shawn Blore Anae Ulesese — Melbourne Storm
* Stephen Crichton — Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
* Sua Fa’alogo — Melbourne Storm
* Clayton Faulalo — Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
* Chanel Harris-Tavita — Warriors
* Benaiah Ioelu — Sydney Roosters
* Connelly Lemuelu — Dolphins
* Spencer Leniu — Sydney Roosters
* Jarome Luai — Wests Tigers
* Francis Manuleleua — Newcastle Knights
* Deine Mariner — Brisbane Broncos
* Ata Mariota — Canberra Raiders
* Greg Marzhew — Newcastle Knights
* Jermaine McEwen — Newcastle Knights
* Francis Molo — Dolphins
* Junior Paulo — Parramatta Eels
* Pasami Saulo — Newcastle Knights
* Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow — Dolphins
* Izack Tago — Penrith Panthers
* Jazz Tevaga — Wakefield Trinity
* Brian To’o — Penrith Panthers
* Enari Tuala — Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
* Ronald Volkman — Parramatta Eels