Toa Samoa have named their first line-up for the Rugby League World Cup as they prepare to face France this Friday night.
One of the most impressive aspects of this team is the quality of its spine.
In rugby league, the spine consists of the fullback, halfback, five-eighth and hooker, with the lock also playing an important role in controlling the team’s attack and linking play across the field.
Samoa have named Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow at fullback.
Known as “The Hammer”, the Queensland Maroons representative is a star of the Dolphins and is widely regarded as one of the fastest players in the NRL. He is also no stranger to the try line, having scored 128 NRL tries.
It came as little surprise to see Jarome Luai and Chanel Harris-Tavita named in the halves. Luai led Toa Samoa to the World Cup final four years ago and will be looking to guide the team on another deep run this year.
Harris-Tavita has been one of the standout five-eighths in the game this year, helping the Warriors finish second on the ladder after the regular season.
World-class halves have been an area where Samoa have lacked depth in previous years, but the combination of Luai and Harris-Tavita gives the side an opportunity to capitalise on the pairs leadership and playmaking abilities.
At hooker is young gun Benaiah Ioelu, who comes into the tournament fresh off a premiership victory with the Sydney Roosters.
Ioelu spent much of the year playing behind NSW representative Reece Robson but has always made the most of the opportunities he received, showcasing why the Roosters are investing in him for the long term.
Completing the spine at lock is Francis Manuleleua, who has been one of the breakout players of the year, helping Newcastle reach the NRL Grand Final after more than 20 years.
Manuleleua has put the rugby league world on notice with his powerful carries and impressive work rate. He also played second five-eighth in First XV rugby at King’s College in Auckland, and is no stranger to ball-playing duties.
Fan favourite Brian To’o retains his spot on the wing, while the people’s captain, Junior Paulo, starts at prop.
Francis Molo of the Dragons joins Paulo in the front row, while Deine Mariner, son of legendary singer Lapi Mariner, partners To’o on the wing.
Izack Tago is the surprise selection at centre. Many punters had predicted that Tabuai-Fidow would start in the centres alongside Stephen Crichton, which would have left Sua Fa’alogo to take the fullback position.
However, head coach Ben Gardiner has named Fa’alogo on the bench, with Tago starting in the centres.
The selection suggests Gardiner has a specific plan for Fa’alogo to make an impact when he enters the game, potentially bringing his speed and attacking flair against a tiring defence.
Jermaine McEwen and Francis Manuleleua are the side’s only debutants. Both players represent Newcastle and featured in the NRL Grand Final.
Toa Samoa will face France at 7:45 pm Samoa local time this Friday nigjt
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