Two former All Blacks players, Steven Luatua and Jeff To'omaga-Allen are amongst the eight debutants named in the 31-touring squad for the Manu Samoa Northern Hemisphere tour. 

The 31-man squad were announced by the Chairman, Tuilaepa Dr. Sa'ilele Malielegaoi at a press conference at Lakapi Samoa's Headquarters at Tuanaimato on Wednesday afternoon. 

The Lakapi Samoa Chairman was joined by the Chief Executive Officer of Lakapi Samoa, Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea'i, Manu Samoa Head Coach, Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua, Assistant Coach, Mase Mahonri Schwalger and Team Manager, Su'a Hezed Ieremia. 

According to Vaovasamanaia, the selection of the touring squad for the Northern Hemisphere tour was not easy. 

However, he did confirm the "landmark" change approved by the World Rugby Council in November of last year, allowing national team players to switch countries, if they were born in the country they want to represent or have a parent or grandparent born there, assisted them with the decision. 

Consequently, they were able to have on board two Samoan players who played for the All Black in the past, Steven Luatua and Jeff To'omaga-Allen. The squad also included two local players. 

The Northern Hemisphere tour is the first northern tour for the Samoan outfit since 2019 and since Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua took over as head coach.

"The Northern Hemisphere tour will provide plenty of challenges with three very tough test matches against quality opponents," Vaovasamanaia said. 

"We will look to build on the success of the Pacific Nation Cup win and keep developing how we want to play, whilst also having a good look at our talent pool for our RWC 2023 team selection. 

"We do not have many test matches to prepare for the rugby's pinnacle event so we are maximising on every opportunity that presents itself. 

"There is a balanced mix of young and experienced players with two local players rewarded for their strong performances in local competitions. 

"The majority of the team are northern based, and includes eight uncapped players making their debut for Samoa including those eligible from the recent change in the World Rugby eligibility rules. 

"With only six tests this year, the team looks to further build on the given matches. 

"We are excited to be going on a what will be a difficult tour, especially after the disruptions and challenges over the past two years. 

"This has been the most difficult team to select with the quality of players available. We are building some quality depth and I look forward to working with this group. 

"I am thrilled for the opportunity for our Manu Samoa to end what has been a good yet tough year on a high. And as always, we appreciate all the support and encouragement from our people and supporters both here in Samoa and around the world."

Vaovasamanaia is looking forward to use the tour as part of the build-up to the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France on the back of winning the 2022 World Rugby Nations Cup in Fiji of July this year. 

The Chairman of Lakapi Samoa, Tuilaepa also used the opportunity to acknowledge the continuous support and assistance from the Government of Samoa in funding the tour and the development of players and rugby in Samoa. 

The tour will feature three Test matches against Italy on November 5 in Padua, Georgia on November 12 in Tbilisi, and Romania on November 19 in Bucharest. 

The 31-touring squad are: Afaesetiti Amosa, Alapati Leiua, Brian Alainuuese, Chris Vui, D'Angelo Leuila, Danny Toala, Des Sepulona, Donald Brighouse, Duncan Paia'aua, Ereatara Enari, Fritz Lee, Jeff To'omaga-Allen, Joe Perez, Jonathan Taumateine, Jordan Lay, Luteru Tolai, Manu Leiataua, Michael Alaalatoa, Nephi Leatigaga, Nigel Ah Wong, Rodney Iona, Sa Jordan Taufua, Seilala Lam, Stacey Ili, Steven Luatua, Talalelei Gray, Taleni Seu, Theo MacFarland, Tomasi Alosio, Tumua Manu, Ulupano Junior Seuteni.