Coach Tama Umaga has revealed the first-ever Moana Pasifika squad for a showcase match against the Māori All Blacks next month.
The 26-man squad features one-test All Black Josh Ioane as well as Mitre 10 Cup stars Salesi Rayasi, Leicester Faingaanuku and Daniel Leinert-Brown.
Umaga says the selectors were spoiled for choice with a large pool of high-calibre players to pick from.
"We believe we have selected a squad that represents a great mix of players who identify with the great nations of Fiji, Samoa and Tonga," Umaga says.
"We have nine players who have represented one of these three Pacific nations; seven have played at Rugby World Cup or World Cup Sevens tournaments.
"We are really grateful to have had great support from the coaching teams of the Manu Samoa and Ikale Tahi [Tonga] as they also see this as an opportunity to build Pasifika home nations rugby talent and capability first."
Moana Pasifika is the preferred selection to represent the Pacific Island Super Rugby franchise from 2022 onwards.
Umaga says he wants the players to express themselves in a traditional pacific island style of rugby, come the clash with the Māori on December 5 in Hamilton.
"We know these players know how to play rugby, and under the Moana Pasifika banner, we know they will represent their heritage with pride.
"This is a true Pasifika side with all of our players not only identifying as strongly with their Pasifika nation, but they also bring a special strength of tradition, culture and language from their families.
"I’m proud of this squad, and excited we can offer the opportunity for some of our players to connect with their culture and acknowledge their parents and families while for others they will continue their proud commitment to their Pasifika heritage.
"I’m looking forward to our Pasifika community turning out in force to do what they do so well, and fly their flags in loud and colourful support of our team against the Māori All Blacks."
Moana Pasifika squad:
Forwards: Alamanda Motuga, Daniel Leinert-Brown, Gerard Cowley-Tuioti, Jordan Lay, Leni Apisai, Marino Mikaele-Tu’u, Michael Alaalatoa, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Nasi Manu, Pita Gus Sowakula, Samipeni Finau, Samisoni Taukie’aho, Sione Mafielo, Zane Kapeli
Backs: Asaeli Tikoroituma, Dwyane Polataivao, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Fetuli Paea, Folau Fakatava, Jone Macilai, Josh Ioane, Leicester Faingaanuku, Salesi Rayasi, Stephen Perofeta, Tomasi Alosio, Vince Aso
