AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) Samoa has named 18 northern hemisphere-based players in its lineup for Friday’s Pacific Challenge rugby test against New Zealand.
Former Crusaders center Kieron Fonotia, now playing in Wales for Ospreys, is the only new cap in the starting lineup named Wednesday in Auckland, while Stade Francais prop Paul Alo-Emile and Nevers scrumhalf Auvasa Faleali’i may make test debuts off the bench.
Bath scrumhalf Kahn Fotuali’i will captain Samoa, taking over the leadership role from winger David Lemi who is injured. Center Reynold Lee-Lo was also not considered due to injury.
”Obviously losing the experience that both of these players bring is crucial and David’s leadership will be missed,” Samoa coach Alama Ieremia said.