The Manu Samoa rugby coach Stephen Betham says former All Black Jerry Collins approached him to see if it was possible for him play for Samoa at the World Cup.
The 34 year Collins, who was born in Samoa but came to New Zealand as a young boy and grew up in Porirua, died in a car crash along with his wife in France last week.
Their baby daughter remains in a critical condition in hospital.
Betham says unfortunately Collins wasn't eligible to play for Samoa but they would like to mark his passing ahead of the upcoming test against the All Blacks in Apia.
All Black flanker Jerry Collins announces his retirement from first class rugby in New Zealand in 2008. Photo: Photosport
"He did signal towards the end of last year if there was any possible way of him playing for Samoa in the World Cup but, unfortunately it hasn't gone that way," Betham said.
"(He) was a great ambassador for the game. He will be dearly missed not only in New Zealand but Samoa," he said.
"I recall when he came to Samoa he'd actually sometimes put on the boots and helps the boys train...and anything that we can do to help remember Jerry on the day we play the All Blacks wou'd be great for us to do and we can only offer condolences to Jerry's family and (the family of) his partner," Betham said.
