Depth in talent pool
Moana Pasifika able to call on test players to face Ma¯ori All Blacks
Coach Fa’alogo Tanaumaga hasnamedthe first ever Moanapasifika squad and it has plenty of experience. The Fiji, Samoaand Tonga combined team will play thema¯ori All Blacks in Hamilton on December 5.
Moanapasifika is one of the preferred partners to join Super Rugby in 2022.
The inaugural squad includes nine players with test experience and another threewhohave played international sevens.
One-test All Black Josh Ioane will lead the backline that also includes Super Rugby players Leicester Fainga’anuku from Tasmanand the Crusaders and Hurricanes and Auckland winger Salesi Rayasi, who have emerged as two of the players of the Mitre 10 Cup.
Umagahas also included anumber of familiarnames in the forward pack including Daniel Leinert-brown, Sione Mafielo, Leni Apisai, Nasimanu and Michael Alaalatoa.
Umagacongratulated the players selected for the firstmoanapasifika side.
“We’re really proud of the squad wehave selected— it’s a great side. Wewere really spoilt for choice with selections, and aswehave always known, players were really drawn to be part of this special team.
“Webelievewehave selected a squad that represents a great mix of playerswhoidentify with the great nations of Fiji, Samoaand Tonga.
“Many of the players are contracted Super Rugby players and all but one have proudly represented their provinces in Mitre 10Cupin 2020.
“Weare really grateful to have had great support from the coaching teams of the
Manu
Samoaand Ikale Tahi (Tonga) as they also see this as an opportunity to build Pasifikahomenations rugby talent and capability first. “Forsomeplayers like Josh Ioane, thismaybe the only opportunity they will get to play for a teamthat acknowledges their Pacific heritage, in a one-off fixture like this, and we’re excited to have themin the mix. “Weknowthese playersknowhow to play rugby, and under themoana Pasifika bannerweknowthey will represent their heritage with pride. This is a true Pasifika side with all of our players not only identifying as strongly with their Pasifika nation, but they also bring a special strength of tradition, culture and language.
“I’m proud of this squad, and excitedwecan offer the opportunity forsome of our players to connect with their culture and acknowledge their parents and families while for others they will continue their proud commitment to their Pasifika heritage.”
— Radionewzealand