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Christian Leali’ifano, who scored essentially the most factors for the Wallabies on the 2019 World Cup, will begin as Samoa’s five-eighth of their opening Rugby World Cup conflict with Chile in Bordeaux.
The 35-year-old, who survived most cancers to return to enjoying elite rugby, transferred his allegiance this 12 months to Samoa from Australia after 26 Assessments.
He took benefit of a rest in World Rugby’s eligibility guidelines, which suggests gamers who stand down for 3 years from showing for one nation can then play for an additional for which they qualify.
Leali’ifano performed for 11 years with the Brumbies, amassing 150 caps, however most lately has turned out for Moana Pasifika within the Tremendous Rugby Pacific competitors.
Beneath the eligibility legal guidelines former All Blacks Steven Luatua, who begins at No.8, and the versatile Lima Sopoaga as a alternative again have additionally switched to Samoa.
Prop Paul Alo-Emile, who gained 50 caps with the Melbourne Rebels and is a former Australian beneath 20s consultant, has been named on the bench for Saturday’s match (Sunday AEST).
The group is captained by Michael Alaalatoa, the brother of Wallabies prop Allan Alaalatoa, who’s lacking from the Australian squad after rupturing an Achilles.
Samoa will goal Chile as their most winnable sport in a pool additionally containing England, Argentina and Japan as they give the impression of being to progress from the pool stage for the primary time since 1999.
Chile misplaced to Japan 42-12 however put up a brave exhibiting of their opening match, as coach Pablo Lemoine makes 4 adjustments.
Samoa group:
James Lay, Seilala Lam, Michael Alaalatoa (c), Chris Vui, Theo McFarland, Taleni Junior Agaese Seu, Fritz Lee, Steven Luatua, Jonathan Taumateine, Christian Leali’ifano, Nigel Ah-Wong, Tumua Manu, Ulupano Junior Seuteni, Danny Toala, Duncan Paia’aua. Res: Sama Malolo, Jordan Lay, Paul Alo-Emile, Sam Slade, Sa Jordan Taufua, Ereatara Enari, Lima Sopoaga, Ed Fidow.
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