Super Rugby is coming to Samoa for the first time with the Blues to host the Reds in Apia in June.
The match on 2 June was announced this morning by Blues Chief Executive Michael Redman and Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi at Samoa House in Auckland.
It's the first Super Rugby match to be played in Samoa and coincides with Samoa's 55th Independence Celebrations.
Blues coach Tana Umaga presents a team jersey to Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Redman said the Blues region was home to around 150,000 Samoans and 15 players in the team have Samoan heritage, along with head coach Tana Umaga.
"We were uncertain this could be organised so quickly given the draw was only announced four months ago. It has only been made possible by the efficient response and support of the Samoan Government, Samoan Tourism, the Samoa Rugby Union and Bluesky our leading commercial partner," he said.
"In particular, we thank the Prime Minister for his leadership to make this event a reality. This is an exciting opportunity for the Blues organisation and rugby both in our region and in Samoa."
Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said the Samoa Government was delighted to welcome the Blues, two years after Manu Samoa played the All Blacks in Apia.
"We are absolutely honoured to see such an event held here in Samoa. This is a positive step for our country," said the Prime Minister.
"We hope in future to attract more select games to Samoa in our rugby union field (at Apia Park).
"The game will also be held on our Independence weekend which carries great significance for our country. We will proudly watch on and cheer for both sides in celebration of our independence and our love of sport."
Manu Samoa played the All Blacks in Apia in 2015. Photo: RNZI / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
Blues coach Tana Umaga said the game would be an emotional one for him and his players, but also an extremely important game in terms of the Super Rugby Championship.
"As someone with Samoa heritage, I am very proud to be part of the first Super Rugby match played in Samoa and of course a number of our team have family members living there," said Umaga.
Jerome Kaino is one of many Blues players with Samoan heritage. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Chiefs defeated the Crusaders 23-13 in Fiji last year in the first Super Rugby match to be played in the Pacific Islands.
SANZAAR CEO Andy Marinos said they were supportive of the further development on Super Rugby in the Pacific.
"Indeed we will have two matches in the Pacific Islands this year. We recognise that Samoa like the rest of the Pacific Islands is an important geographical part of the rugby landscape in the southern hemisphere and the rugby talent and the support for the game within the region is amazing."
