Michael Alaalatoa

Alaalatoa outstanding in his captaincy role for Manu Samoa ahead of 2023 RWC

His first world cup was when he was named in Samoa's 34-man training squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, before being named in the final 31 on 31 August.

The 32-year-old has been influential leading up to the most anticipated rugby tournament after being appointed captain in three out of five warm up games.

The Seilala Mapusua coached side have been outstanding in their performance and managed to secure three wins out of the five matches.

Alaalatoa was also sharing the captaincy role with co-captain Chris Vui in the games against Barbarian FC and Ireland.

Ala’alatoa keen to play alongside Moana Pasifika players in PNC opener

Captain Michael Ala’alatoa said he is happy to see most of the Moana Pasifika players in the starting line-up.

“I’m really excited to see a couple of players from Moana that will make their debut and I’m really excited to see what they bring. Obviously the experience of Fritz Lee and Taefu.”

Samoa is also aiming to be more physical in the game against the Aussies and other matches in the tournament in Fiji.

Leinster announce signing of Crusaders prop Michael Alaalatoa

Born and raised in Sydney, Alaalatoa has been capped five times for Samoa, with his last game for the country coming in their 2019 Rugby World Cup pool stage defeat to Ireland.

He made his Super Rugby debut for the Waratahs in 2014 and moved to the Crusaders in 2016. He has since played 89 times for the club and won three Super Rugby titles as well as last year’s Super Rugby Aotearoa championship.

“It is a huge honour to be given the opportunity to join Leinster Rugby,” Alaalatoa said.