Seilala Mapusua backs Samoa talents to shine for Moana Pasifika

Manu Samoa head coach Seilala Mapusua is backing the local talent to benefit from playing for Moana Pasifika in the upcoming 2022 season of Super Rugby Pacific.

Moana Pasifika along with Fijian Drua were handed licenses for the upcoming season that will see them compete with top Super Rugby sides from New Zealand and Australia.

While the club is yet to unveil the signing, it is understood that Mapusua had a discussion with Moana Pasifika head coach Aaron Mauger about the prospect of more players from Samoa gaining exposure in the competition.

"We're pretty happy with their selections and obviously as the (Samoa) national coach I'll always be pushing for more, but it's good to have those already established relationships so we can have those conversations," he said.

"We are invested in Moana Pasifika: we want to make sure and see them do well because in return it means I'm able to select real quality players for international honours.

"Obviously I'm going to push as many of our players as possible and it's just a matter of making sure it's a good fit with Moana Pasifika, and they're going to be a competitive side right from the get-go in their inaugural season in Super (Rugby Pacific)."

Earlier, the club confirmed that they will play their home games at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland for the next seven seasons until 2028.

Meanwhile, Samoa had cancelled their end of year tour clashes with Georgia, Uruguay, Spain and Barbarians in line with the Government's current health and travel advice.