Kiwis Unveil Strong Lineup for Pacific Championships Against Samoa

The Kiwis have announced a formidable squad for their opening match of the Pacific Championships, set to take place on October 15, 2023, in Auckland. Veteran playmaker Kieran Foran, who is retiring after this season, will team up with Dylan Brown in the halves against Samoa. This match marks a significant moment for Foran, who has been a key player for New Zealand rugby league.

A total of six players from the Kiwis’ triumphant 2023 title-winning squad are making a return, including wing Ronaldo Mulitalo, second rower Briton Nikora, and props Moses Leota and Nelson Asofa-Solomona. Starting at hooker will be Jeremy Marshall-King, who made his international debut at the 2022 World Cup and is now poised to contribute to the Kiwis’ campaign.

In a notable selection decision, Joseph Tapine, the captain of the Canberra Raiders, has been chosen to wear the No. 13 jersey, relegating Erin Clark, the Dally M lock of the year, to a supporting role. The team will be led by James Fisher-Harris, who is one of ten players returning from the last Kiwis match, a comprehensive 54-12 victory over Papua New Guinea in November 2022.

The inclusion of young talent is also evident, as Xavier Willison from the Brisbane Broncos has been named as the 18th man, preparing for his potential test debut. The Kiwis are determined to kick off the Pacific Championships with a strong performance, building on their recent successes while introducing fresh faces to the international scene.

As the anticipation builds for this clash in Auckland, fans are eager to see how the blend of experience and youth will translate on the field. The Kiwis aim to establish dominance in the Pacific Championships, and the match against Samoa is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting tournament.