Following World Rugby’s new eligibility laws, internationally capped rugby players can represent a new nation, after a three year ‘stand-down’ period.
Samoa is one such nation that is enjoying these new rule changes, as former All Blacks and Premiership stars are joining up with 'Manu Samoa' ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
These players of course have ancestorial ties to the country, which enables them to qualify for the national team. We have decided to look further ahead, and continue our Ultimate XV series on from Tonga. Here is the Ultimate XV for Samoa, that could feasibly take to the field for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Back Three
15. Josh Ioane (Samoa U20s / New Zealand XV)
14. Jordan Petaia (Australia)
11. Julian Savea (All Blacks)
Centres
Manu Tuilagi of England is tackled by Damian de Allende of South Africa during the Autumn Nations International Series match between England and South Africa at Twickenham, London on 26 November 2022 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
13. Manu Tuilagi (England)
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland)
Halfbacks
Jacob Umaga of Wasps during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between London Wasps and Exeter Chiefs at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, on 04 Oct. Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK
10. Jacob Umaga - (England)
9. Ere Enari (New Zealand U20s / Samoa)
Front Row
- Allan Ala'alatoa (Australia)
2. Jordan Uelese (Australia)
3. Charlie Faumuina (All Blacks - 2011 & 2015 RWC Winner)
Locks
4. Theo McFarland (Samoa)
5. Chris Vui (New Zealand U20s - Samoa Captain)
Back Row
Steven Luatua, Captain of Bristol Bears during the warm up before the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Semi Final Match between Wasps and Bristol Bears at Ricoh Arena on 10 October. Photo: Steve Bond/PPAUK/Gallagher
6. Steven Luatua (Samoa U20s / All Blacks)
7. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (Australia)
8. Ardie Savea (All Blacks)
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