1 Jul 2015

Sport: Shock return called in Samoa squad for ABs test

8:58 am on 1 July 2015

A shock recall for Census Johnston is the main talking point of Manu Samoa's 27-strong squad to take on the All Blacks in next week's historic test match in Apia.

The front-rower announced his retirement from international rugby back in April, after signing a new deal with French side Toulouse, amid suggestions he was pressured by his club to make himself unavailable for his country.

But the 34 year old veteran of 50 tests appears to have changed his mind two months out from Rugby World Cup.

Samoa A midfielder Faialaga Afamasaga is the only locally-based player and one of two new caps, along with Chiefs utility back Tim Nanai Williams.

David Lemi, James Johnson, George Pisi, and Faifili Levave have been ruled out through injury while Rey Lee-Lo is also unavailable because of his involvement in this weekend's Super Rugby final.

The Samoa Rugby Union Chair and Prime Minister, Tuila'epa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi, called on the team to win for the hearts of all Samoans.

"All the players will no doubt have already received similar words of wisdom from your families, friends as well as just about from everyone you hang around long enough to listen to on the streets of Apia - and expect more to come. I guess the players will have to forgive us and our people for our enthusiasm. The message being conveyed in different ways is the same: do your utmost, play strong, play smart and win".

Samoa's matchday squad of 23 will be announced on Monday.

Manu Samoa captain Ofisa Treviranus with several local parliamentarians at the squad naming for the All Blacks test.

Manu Samoa captain Ofisa Treviranus with several local parliamentarians at the squad naming for the All Blacks test. Photo: RNZI / Tipi Autagavaia

Manu Samoa squad:

Props: Viliamu Afatia, Census Johnston, Anthony Perenise, Sakaria Taulafo

Hookers : Ole Avei, Ma'atulimanu Leiataua

Locks: Kane Thompson, Teofilo Paulo, Iosefa Tekori, Faatiga Lemalu

Loose Forwards: Alafoti Faosiliva, Jack Lam, Ofisa Treviranus, Maurie Fa'asavalu, TJ Ioane

Halfbacks: Khan Fotualii, Peleifofoga Cowley

First five: Tusiata Pisi, Michael Stanley

Midfielders: Faialaga Afamasaga, Johnny Leota, Paul Perez

Wings: Alofa Alofa, Ken Pisi, Alesana Tuilagi

Fullbacks: Tim Nanai Williams, Ahsee Tuala