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
13. Manu Tuilagi (England)
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland)