All Blacks confirm Test in Samoa

As reported in The Rugby Paper on July 6, New Zealand have confirmed they will play their first ever Test in Samoa next year.
The match, which will serve as a warm-up ahead of the Rugby World Cup, will take place on Wednesday July 8.
“This will be a wonderful celebration of the rich rugby connections and proud history that bind New Zealand and Samoa,” New Zealand Rugby chairman Brent Impey said. “We know how much rugby means to Samoans and New Zealanders so to take the All Blacks to Apia will be a huge moment for all of us.
”Importantly, we are not only honouring rugby’s Pacific heritage, we are also providing players with a meaningful test as part of our plan to ensure the All Blacks are in the best possible shape to win in England in 2015.”
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen added: “Many players in our team have strong ties to Samoa so this test will be a great occasion for all of us. It will only enhance the links between our two countries.”