Big names feature in Moana Pasifika squad

Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga has named a squad bristling with pace, skill and power for the clash against NZ Ma¯ori in Hamilton on December 5.

One-test All Black Josh Ioane will lead a Pasifika backline that includes Crusaders and Tasman wing Leceister Fainga’anuku and Auckland’s Salesi Rayasi, probably the form backs in the Mitre 10 Cup.

That trio will be joined by Super Rugby talents Vince Aso, Fetuli Paea, Stephen Perofeta and Folau Fakatava, the Hawke’s Bay and Highlanders halfback who has also been in outstanding form.

Up front, classy No 8 Marino Mikaele-Tu’u will be joined by Chiefs Samisoni Taukieaho and Pita Gus Sowakula, while Crusaders prop Michael Alaalatoa, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Sione Mafileo and Nasi Manu are also in the mix.

‘‘We’re really proud of the squad we have selected – it’s a great side,’’ Umaga said. ‘‘We were really spoilt for choice with selections.’’

Moana Pasifika had heavyweight backing for inclusion in Super Rugby Aotearoa in 2021, but NZ Rugby decided that it would be better if the new side was given more time to get ready for 2022.

That means the NZ Ma¯ori fixture is an important stepping stone for Moana Pasifika as it builds presence and credibility before what will be an important year in

2021 wooing commercial support and players and strengthening ties to the Pacific Islands countries.

Ash Dixon will captain New Zealand Ma¯ori in the match.

Hawke’s Bay skipper Dixon was named to lead the Clayton McMillan-coached side which features the return of veteran Liam Messam.

Among the newcomers in the

24-man squad is an all-new midfield lineup of Hurricanes utility Billy Proctor and former Hamilton Boys’ High School first XV teammates Quinn Tupaea and Rameka Poihipi.