Manu Samoa say tomorrow's test against Australia in Sydney is an important yardstick in their Rugby World Cup buildup.
Head coach Fuimaono Tafua has selected a strong lineup to take on the Wallabies, with halfback Kahn Fotuali'i named to make his first international appearance of the year.
Vinnie Wylie reports.
"Fuimaono says the Wallabies are a quality team and will provide a good indication of where Samoa is at in their world cup preparations. The team will be backing up just four days after ending their Pacific Nations Cup campaign with an underwhelming 29-19 loss to Tonga. They also lost to Fiji after opening the tournament with a win over Japan."
Fuimaono made a number of changes to his lineups during the PNC but has opted for experience against the worlds second-ranked side.
It's a very good team for us, especially that we are prepared for the world cup. - a very good opportunity for our players to play against good players.
Following the Wallabies test, Samoa will complete their world cup buildup next month with two matches against the Western Force Super Rugby team.
Meanwhile Fiji is due to name its lineup to face the All Blacks in Dunedin this afternoon.
