Sport

Samoa name 27 man squad to take on All Blacks

10:06 am on 1 July 2015

Manu Samoa have named a 27-strong squad to take on the All Blacks in next week's historic Test match in Apia.

Manu Samoa captain Ofisa Treviranus. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Samoa 'A' midfielder Faialaga Afamasaga is the only locally-based player and one of two new caps, along with Chiefs utility back Tim Nanai Williams.

Ofisa Treviranus will captain the home side, with previous skipper David Lemi ruled out through injury, along with James Johnson, George Pisi, and Faifili Levave.

The Samoa Rugby Union Chair and Prime Minister, Tuila'epa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi, called on the team to win for the hearts of all Samoans.

"All the players will no doubt have already received similar words of wisdom from your families, friends as well as just about from everyone you hang around long enough to listen to on the streets of Apia - and expect more to come. I guess the players will have to forgive us and our people for our enthusiasm. The message being conveyed in different ways is the same: do your utmost, play strong, play smart and win".

Samoa's matchday squad of 23 will be announced on Monday.

Manu Samoa squad:

Props: Viliamu Afatia, Census Johnston, Anthony Perenise, Sakaria Taulafo

Hookers : Ole Avei, Ma'atulimanu Leiataua

Locks: Kane Thompson, Teofilo Paulo, Iosefa Tekori, Faatiga Lemalu

Loose Forwards: Alafoti Faosiliva, Jack Lam, Ofisa Treviranus, Maurie Fa'asavalu, TJ Ioane

Halfbacks: Khan Fotualii, Peleifofoga Cowley

First five: Tusiata Pisi, Michael Stanley

Midfielders: Faialaga Afamasaga, Johnny Leota, Paul Perez

Wings: Alofa Alofa, Ken Pisi, Alesana Tuilagi

Fullbacks: Tim Nanai Williams, Ahsee Tuala