All Blacks Squad Named to Play Samoa in Historic Test

by Scott Donaldson & Chris Heal Monday 6 July 2015

The All Blacks are missing a few key men due in Samoa

©PA

New Zealand Coach Steve Hansen is set to hand George Moala his first cap when the All Blacks take on Samoa on Wednesday.

Hansen’s men travel to Apia for this historic encounter as it is the first official test New Zealand have played on the Pacific Islands.

The All Blacks have won all five of the previous contests between the sides in New Zealand, but they will be in for a very tough game against a strong and mature Samoa team.

With players from the Highlanders and Hurricanes unavailable because of their involvement in the Super Rugby Final, Hansen has selected four debutants, including Moala, in the 23 match day squad.

Moala will start on the wing whilst Charlie Ngatai, scrum-half Brad Weber and prop Nepo Laulala are amongst the replacements.

The selection also sees recalls for scrum-half Andy Ellis and hooker Hikawera Elliot, with the latter claiming a spot on the bench highlighting his remarkable comeback from a serious neck injury.

The ever presents of Richie McCaw and Dan Carter will claim their 138^th and 103^rd caps respectively while other players will get their chance to shine.

All Blacks Starting XV v Samoa

1. Tony Woodcock (110)

2. Keven Mealamu (123)

3. Owen Franks (57)

4. Luke Romano (17)

5. Samuel Whitelock (62)

6. Jerome Kaino (56)

7. Richie McCaw - captain (137)

8. Kieran Read (72)

9. Andy Ellis (26)

10. Daniel Carter (102)

11. Charles Piutau (14)