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Matavesi and Tuala both start in New Zealand this weekend

Northampton Saints duo Sam Matavesi and Ahsee Tuala have been named in the starting line ups for Fiji and Samoa respectively as the two countries take to the field in New Zealand this weekend. 

Having got their summer campaign starting with back-to-back clashes with Maori All Blacks in recent weeks, Samoa take on Tonga in a Rugby World Cup qualifier in Auckland on Saturday (10 July, kick-off 4.30pm local time) – with 31-year-old Tuala running out at fullback to earn his 23rd cap for the Manu. 

Meanwhile, hooker Matavesi will claim a 16th international cap as he starts in the first of Fiji's two Tests against the All Blacks this month, as the Flying Fijians get their summer campaign started in Dunedin on Saturday (kick-off 7pm local time).

SAMOA vs TONGA
Saturday 10 July, 2021
Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland
Kick-off: 4.30pm (local time)

15 Ahsee Tuala
14 Tomasi Alosio
13 Stacey Ili
12 Henry Taefu
11 Neria Foami
10 Rodney Iona
9 Auvases Faleali'i

1 Tietie Tuimauga
2 Ray Niula
3 Michael Alaalatoa
4 Benjamin Nee-Nee
5 Samuel Slade
6 Olajuwon Noa
7 Alamanda Motuga
8 Henry Time-Stowers

Replacements:
16 Seilala Lam
17 Jonah Aoina
18 Kalolo Tuiloma
19 Theo McFarland
20 Jack Lam
21 Jonathan Taumateine
22 D'Angelo Leuila
23 Ed Fidow

FIJI vs NEW ZEALAND
Saturday 10 July, 2021
Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Kick-off: 7pm (local time)

15 Kini Murimurivalu
14 Eroni Sau
13 Waisea Nayacalevu
12 Levani Botia
11 Nemani Nadolo
10 Ben Volavola
9 Simione Kuruvoli

1 Peni Ratuva
2 Sam Matavesi
3 Mesake Doge
4 Temo Mayanavanua
5 Leone Nakarawa
6 Johnny Dyer
7 Meulame Kunavula
8 Albert Tuisue

Replacements:
16 Peni Narisia
17 Haereuti Hetet
18 Leeroy Atalifo
19 Tevita Ratuya
20 Peceli Yato
21 Setareki Tuicuvu
22 Eneriko Buliruarua
23 Manasa Mataele

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