Umaga called up by Samoa

Head coach Tusi Pisi has named 11 uncapped players in the first Manu Samoa squad of the 2025 Test season, with the sons of two rugby greats among the new faces.

Niko Jones, son of All Blacks legend Michael Jones, and Jacob Umaga, son of former Samoa international Mike Umaga, are both in line for debuts.

Jones, 24, has featured for Moana Pasifika, Auckland and San Diego, while Umaga is eligible via World Rugby’s birthright transfer after one Test for England in 2021.

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Pisi’s 39-man squad includes players from seven countries. Star loose forward Theo McFarland has been confirmed as captain.

“We respect Scotland, but we play for Samoa,” said Pisi. “I’ve chosen warriors who understand the weight of the jersey. This is our battlefield for World Cup qualification.”

Samoa face Scotland at Eden Park on 18 July before heading into the Pacific Nations Cup, where they face Tonga and Fiji ahead of the knockout stages in the USA.

Also earning a call-up is former Northampton Saints scrumhalf Connor Tupai, now based in America, as Samoa builds toward the 2027 World Cup in Australia.

FULL SAMOA SQUAD
Forwards: Aki Seiuli, Titi Lamositele, Kaynan Siteine-Tua*, Luteru Tolai, Pita Anae-Ah Sue, Leif Schwencke, Michael Alaalatoa, Marco Fepulea’i, Tietie Tuimauga, Bradley Soo Amituanai, Samuel Slade, Benjamin Petaia Nee-Nee, Michael Curry, Theodore McFarland (c), Olajuwon Noa, Jonah Mau’u, Taleni Seu, Niko Jones.
Backs: Malaesaili Elato, Iakopo Mapu, Melani Matavao, Connor Tupai, Joel Lam*, Jacob Umaga, Rodney Iona, Duncan Paia’aua, Alai D’Angelo Leuila, Henry Taefu, Melani Nanai, Afa Moleli, Taunuu Niulevaea, Tuna Tuitama, Elisapeta Alofipo, Tomasi Alosio, Latrell Ah Kiong.

Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images