Leali’ifano takes subsequent step in exceptional profession after Samoa change
C
hristian Leali’ifano will take the subsequent step in his exceptional profession when main Samoa’s backline in opposition to Chile on the Rugby World Cup on Saturday.
The 36-year-old has needed to negotiate leukaemia, losses of kind and even now a change of Test allegiance to achieve the 2023 match nonetheless within the worldwide space.
So when he pulls on Samoa’s jersey at a World Cup for the primary time this weekend, the previous Australia fly-half will probably be rightfully proud simply to have made it this far.
Leali’ifano ranks amongst a bunch of Samoa stars to capitalise on World Rugby’s new heritage rule, switching allegiance after a three-year Test stand-down interval.
Head coach Seilala Mapusua is happy with the efficiency of his squad and can’t wait to ship Samoa into World Cup motion.
“This is our first game and it feels like we’ve been waiting a long time.” stated Mapusua.
“There’s been a lot of managing the energy levels and making sure we don’t over-stimulate ourselves before the weekend.”