Samoa name former All Blacks trio Akira Ioane, Josh Ioane and Shaun Stevenson in November squad

Former All Blacks Akira Ioane, Josh Ioane and Shaun Stevenson have been named in Samoa’s 30-man squad for November’s Nations Cup fixtures.

The trio are among eight players awaiting their first Samoa cap as head coach Lemalu Tusi Pisi prepares for matches against Zimbabwe, Portugal and Spain.

Samoa begin against Zimbabwe on 7 November, with the November programme offering another opportunity to build towards the 2027 World Cup.

Former All Blacks join Samoa squad

Akira Ioane brings the most New Zealand Test experience of the three, having made 21 appearances for the All Blacks.

The back-rower plays for Hanazono Kintetsu Liners in Japan. Josh Ioane is with Connacht, while full-back Stevenson plays for Kubota Spears.

Their inclusion adds experienced options across the back row, half-backs and back three, although selection in the wider squad does not guarantee a November debut.

RugbyPass’s report of the squad announcement also identifies Etene Nanai-Seturo and AJ Lam among the uncapped players.

November tests follow mixed July campaign

Theo McFarland and Michael Alaalatoa are also included, alongside former Australia prop Scott Sio, who has already represented Samoa.

Samoa won one of their three Nations Cup matches in July, beating Hong Kong China before losing to Georgia and Romania.

Their next three opponents have also qualified for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.

Elsewhere in international rugby, New Zealand have named their side for Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup opener. Read the All Blacks team news, including Damian McKenzie’s selection and Scott Barrett’s return.