Influential captain Ardie Savea and athletic winger Solomon Alaimalo return to Moana Pasifika’s starting lineup as they travel to Christchurch to face the Crusaders on Saturday night.
There are five changes in the forwards with Tito Tuipulotu earning his first start at prop and tight-head Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou rejoining the starting 15. Samuel Slade also links up with Allan Craig to form a robust lock pairing.
Semisi Paea is set to make his first start of the year at openside flanker.
Meanwhile Tevita Ofa earns his debut start on the right wing, joining Alaimalo to create a backline threat.
William Havili has been owning the fullback position this season and will look to continue his great form last week with two tries against the Chiefs. He’ll face his older brother and captain of the Crusaders, David Havili.
On the bench, experienced Samoan international Alamanda Motuga will make his maiden appearance of the year. Motuga was part of the Samoa sevens side that competed in their first ever Olympic games in Paris 2024.
Head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga said: “We’re grateful to have depth in our forwards with a lot of seasoned players. Alamanda is one of those players and we’re pleased he’ll get the chance to get on the field. Having Ardie back is also great for the team who will follow his lead.
“The Crusaders have been playing really well and we’ve got to come out strong to have a chance.
“Going to Christchurch, we’re focused on getting into a rhythm early, just sticking to our unique game and what we know.”
Unavailable due to injury: Danny Toala (knee), James Lay (elbow), Julian Savea (knee), Kyren Taumoefolau (shoulder), Losi Filipo (shoulder), Lotu Inisi (hamstring), Michael Curry (shoulder injury), Samiuela Moli (hamstring), Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (quad), Sione Havili Talitui (ankle).
ENDS
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