The Manu Samoa coach says he has faith that his new look squad for Saturday's historic match against Georgia will be able to handle the pressure that comes with test rugby.
Prop Sam Aiono, number eight Jeff Lepa, halfback Dwayne Polataivao and fullback Albert Nikoro will make their debuts against the Georgians who are playing in Apia for the first time.
Namulau'ulu Alama Ieremia has also named six uncapped players on the bench.
The Manu Samoa captain and coach are joined by the Union Chair and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi for the team naming. Photo: RNZI/ Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
He said the new caps will have the support of the nation and the sprinkling of a few experienced players within the team.
Ieremia said the debutants forced their selection through recent form.
"We were very happy to see some very good form that needs to be rewarded at test level," he said.
"I believe if you have faith in the players that you have then they should be rewarded otherwise there's no reason in picking a big squad if you were never going to put them in the heat. I believe these players are ready for the challenge. They deserve an opportunity."
Pakuranga halfback Dwayne Polataivao will make his debut for Samoa. Photo: Photosport
The Samoa team to play Georgia:
- Albert Nikoro
- Faatoina Autagavaia
- Reynold Lee Lo
- Faialaga Afamasaga
- David Lemi (capt)
- Patrick Fa'apale
- Dwayne Polataivao
- Jeff Lepa
- TJ Ioane
- Alafoti Faosiliva
- Teofilo Paulo
- Faatiga Lemalu
- James Johnston
- Motu Matuu
- Sam Aiono
Reserves: Seilala Lam, Nuuuli Lene, Jake Grey, Talaga Alofipo, Oneone Faafou, Danny Tusitala, D'Angelo Leuila, Malu Falaniko.
