Manu Samoa coach Seilala Mapusua

13 new caps were named in the first Samoan side for almost two years, with 20 of the 31 players based in New Zealand and Australia.

That was something of a necessity, with the global pandemic depriving Mapusua of up to a dozen first-choice players.

"It was a long and arduous process with so many factors at play, obviously Covid being the major one and not having access to European players," he said.

It's been nine months since the former test midfielder was appointed to the top job but almost two years since the Manu last took to the field because of the ongoing impact of Covid-19.

Samoa will play two tests against the 'Ikale Tahi in New Zealand in July, with the winner to qualify for the 2023 World Cup in France.

After months of patience, planning and preparation, Mapusua was looking forward to actually playing.

"It's been a bit frustrating but at the same time you've just got to roll with the punches and deal with what's in front of you," he said.