Bay of Plenty lock Kane Leaupepe will make his test debut for Manu Samoa in this weekend's Northern Rugby Tour opener against the United States in San Sebastian.
He's the only new cap in the run-on fifteen for head coach Steve Jackson's first test in charge, which includes seven changes from the team that started Samoa's last test against Germany four months ago.
Bay of Plenty lock Kane Leaupepe will make his test debut for Manu Samoa against the USA. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Hooker Ray Niuia, lock Ben Nee-Nee, loose forward Iakopo Mapu and midfielder Stacey Ili are also poised to win the first test cap from the bench.
Aana Chiefs flanker Mapu trains under the tutelage of former Manu Samoa captain Mahonri Schwalger at the Rugby Academy of Samoa.
"I am just humbled and thankful to the Almighty for this opportunity to serve my county. I hold this very dear to my heart as they don't come your way without hard work," he said.
Jack Lam will captain Manu Samoa for the first time. Photo: Samoa Rugby Union / Wayne Dowd
Veteran openside flanker Jack Lam will captain Samoa in his 30th test appearance, in the absence of regular skipper Chris Vui.
The Manu have won all five of their previous tests against the United States, including a 25-16 triumph in pool play at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Manu Samoa team:
1. Logovi'i Mulipola, 2. Motu Matu'u, 3. Paul Alo-Emile, 4. Kane Leaupepe, 5. Filo Paulo, 6. Josh Tyrell, 7. Jack Lam (c), 8. Faifili Levave, 9. Melani Matavao,
10. Tusi Pisi, 11. JJ Taulagi, 12. Alapati Leiua, 13. Rey Lee-Lo, 14. Ed Fidow, 15. Ah See Tuala.
Reserves: Ray Niuia, Jordan Lay, James Lay, Ben Nee-Nee, Iakopo Petelo-Mapu, Dwayne Polataivao, D'Angelo Leuila, Stacey Ili.
