Toa Sāmoa has announced an impressive lineup ahead of Sunday’s Pacific Championships Final, where they are set to challenge the New Zealand Kiwis at CommBank Stadium in Sydney. Notably, star forward Jaydn Su’A makes his return to the field after sitting out the previous match against Tonga XIII due to a concussion. He will take the place of Jeremiah Nanai, who is unavailable due to a shoulder injury.
In addition to Su’A’s return, Jazz Tevaga has been elevated to the starting side, prompting Benaiah Ioelu to move to the bench. Coach Ben Gardiner has opted to maintain the core of the team that achieved a resounding 34-6 victory over Tonga, emphasizing the group’s commitment to bringing home a historic Pacific Championships title. “We’ve had a great build-up and the boys are ready,” Gardiner expressed at a recent media conference. “This is a proud moment for Sāmoa and we’ll give it everything.”
On the other side of the field, the Kiwis have named the same 17 players who convincingly defeated Tonga 40-14 in their last outing. Keano Kini remains the fullback after an impressive performance in his debut match, while veteran Kieran Foran will conclude his 17-year career alongside Dylan Brown in the halves. Coach Stacey Jones highlighted the importance of consistency within the team, stating, “These players did the job last week and earned another shot. We’re ready to go after our second Pacific Cup title.”
The Kiwis are led by James Fisher-Harris and supported by a robust forward pack that includes Moses Leota, Briton Nikora, and Joseph Tapine.
The women’s competition also features an exciting final match as the Kiwi Ferns prepare for a rematch against the Australian Jillaroos after suffering a narrow 10-4 defeat in Auckland last week. The Kiwi Ferns have made strategic changes, welcoming former rugby sevens stars Tyla King and Tysha Ikenasio into their squad, aimed at infusing speed and experience into the lineup. Coach Ricky Henry expressed confidence in his team’s ability to rebound, saying, “We’re glad to have another crack. We just need to tidy up a few small things and keep the pressure on.”
Australian team includes Tamika Upton returning to the fullback position, and impressive debutant Abbi Church will also feature again in the lineup.
As excitement builds for the finals, fans from Sāmoa, Aotearoa, and the broader Pacific region are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling showcase of rugby league talent. The kick-off for the men’s final between Toa Sāmoa and the Kiwis is set for 6:05 p.m. (NZ Time) on Sunday in Sydney, with the Kiwi Ferns meeting the Jillaroos earlier. With Pacific pride and prestigious silverware at stake, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Sydney this weekend, celebrating the strength and spirit of Pacific rugby league.