2015 Rugby World Cup

Four of the matchday squad are playing in their third World Cup, while six are suiting up for the second time.

17 of the matchday 23 also featured in the historic test against the All Blacks in Apia in July.

Teofilo Paulo and Jack Lam are the only newcomers in the pack, which will be led by skipper and number eight Ofisa Treviranus.

Fullback Tim Nanai-Williams will be making just his second test appearance, while the experienced pairing of Kahn Fotuali'i and Tusi Pisi will direct the team in the halves, with vice-captain Alesana Tuilagi on the left wing.

The group of 40 players and management were thrilled as they entered the team room to find Bolt waiting to meet everyone and share his thoughts on preparation and performance at major championships. 

In announcing the team, Chairman of the Samoa Rugby Union who is also the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi acknowledged the perseverance and consistency of these 3 local based players in their campaign to wear the blue jersey.

The 3 selected local based players are Jake Grey, Vavaō Afemai and Patrick Fa’apale.

Tuilaepa congratulated the 3 local based players for their selection in the team. And the Manu Samoa coach Stephen Betham also acknowledged the selection of the 3 players to the team.