Decision by young Samoans to turn down NZ jersey for Samoa turning heads

14 December 2017, 12:00AM

The decision by two young Samoan men based in New Zealand to choose to play for Samoa is turning heads all over the world.

Jeriah Mua is among two players who had been asked to play for New Zealand at this weekend’s World School Sevens tournament but have opted to play for Samoa instead.

TVNZ quotes Mua as saying it was a hard decision but in the end he chose Samoa because of his pride in his country.

The decision comes after eight New Zealanders and one Australian controversially switched allegiances to play their international rugby league for Tonga at the World Cup last month.

Junior Poluleuligaga, coach of the Samoan Barbarians sevens says the Tongan league players have made a big impact on school boy rugby.

"They really made a mark and inspired the younger Polynesian boys to really think about their decision and if you do get an opportunity to represent your island country - take it".

Two of his players had initially been asked to play for the New Zealand team at this weekend's World School Sevens tournament - but they opted to play for Samoa instead.

14 December 2017, 12:00AM
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