Former All Black prop Atu Moli will make his Moana Pasifika debut when the team face the Blues at Eden Park on Sunday afternoon.
The 30-year-old joined Moana Pasifika as an injury replacement and brings a wealth of experience in Super Rugby and on the international stage.
He was the youngest forward in the All Blacks 2019 World Cup squad, and played seven seasons for the Chiefs and two seasons for the Western Force. He is also a former New Zealand Under 20s captain.
Moli has dealt with many injuries throughout his career. Despite this, he has persevered and worked relentlessly to get back on the field.
He is one of four talented Moli brothers who are part of Moana Pasifika, which include Samiuela, Monu and Sekope.
“It’s pretty cool that we get to train together at this level,” Moli said. “I’ve always asked Samiuela about what Moana’s like. I was always interested in the culture and coming here now and witnessing it, it’s like being home again.”
Moli says his faith and family have helped him through tough times.
“In the earlier days [of my career], I was riding the high life and making teams,” Moli said. “Then when the injuries started kicking in, it started going downhill for me.
“Last year I was thinking about throwing in the towel and I was going to retire because I wasn’t getting any interest. What kept me going was God, my wife, son and family…my circle helped me through those times.”
Moana Pasifika head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga says Moli has earned his spot.
“We’re excited to see Atu out on the field, he’s worked really hard to get to where he is now,” Umaga said. “Coming back from multiple injuries isn’t easy but he hasn’t given up and is an excellent example of resilience and persistence, which is very inspiring.”
He added that he’s expecting a good challenge from the Blues.
“The Blues are coming off a good win and we know they’ll be looking for some revenge. We’ve just got to focus on ourselves and get our game right.”
Moana Pasifika also welcomes back Tito Tuipulotu, Lalomilo Lalomilo and William Havili who have recovered from injuries.
Patrick Pellegrini moves back to the starting first five position, while Glen Vaihu moves to left wing, after putting up a great individual performance against the Chiefs last week.
The bench is also shuffled with Mamoru Harada, Monu Moli, Veikoso Poloniati, Tuna Tuitama and Dominic Ropeti re-joining the match day 23. Skilful halfback Joel Lam earns selection again after a superb performance last week, coming off the bench to play the entire second half.
Starting XV
1. Tito Tuipulotu
2. Millennium Sanerivi
3. Atu Moli *DEBUT
4. Tom Savage
5. Allan Craig
6. Miracle Faiilagi (c)
7. Semisi Paea
8. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa
9. Augustine Pulu
10. Patrick Pellegrini
11. Glen Vaihu
12. Lalomilo Lalomilo
13. Tevita Latu
14. Tevita Ofa
15. William Havili
Impact
16. Mamoru Harada
17. Monu Moli
18. Lolani Faleiva
19. Veikoso Poloniati
20. Dominic Ropeti
21. Joel Lam
22. Ngani Laumape
23. Tuna Tuitama
Unavailable due to injury: Israel Leota (ankle), Jimmy Tupou (calf), Jonathan Taumateine (knee), Melani Matavao (calf), Solomon Alaimalo (concussion), Tupou Afungia (neck).
ENDS
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