NEW ZEALAND ARE set to play a Test match in Samoa next year as part of their Rugby World Cup preparations, according to reports in the Southern Hemisphere.
The world champions have been criticised repeatedly in recent seasons for their failure to travel to the Pacific Islands for a Test match, despite the cultural and sports-related ties between the nations.
However, the New Zealand Herald says Steve Hansen’s side will head to Apia for a Test match in 2015 after an agreement was reached by the two countries’ unions. The clash will most likely take place in July.
The Kiwis have faced Samoa six times in Test matches, but never on Samoan soil, meaning this fixture has been highly anticipated. The pre-match Haka vs. Siva Tau war dances will add real edge to the occasion.
New Zealand’s announcement of a Test against the US Eagles in Chicago later this year sparked the latest bout of questioning in regards to the apparent refusal to play in the Pacific Islands.
Those queries appear to have been answered finally, with Samoan Prime Minister, and president of the nation’s rugby union, Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi reported to have told the Herald that the Kiwis “have agreed to play on our soil and we are negotiating a good time to suit the players.”
