Samoa’s rugby league team eyes historic Pacific Cup win over New Zealand
Samoa's rugby league team is gearing up for the Pacific Cup final against New Zealand, with a victory set to achieve one of the country's greatest sporting feats. The team, led by coach Ben Gardiner since 2023, has been rebuilding towards the 2026 World Cup. Despite injuries to key players like Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu, the team's spirit remains high, with seven State of Origin players now in their squad, including recent converts Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Payne Haas.
Gardiner, who has been at the helm since 2023, has fostered a strong connection and community among players and staff. He believes this bond is the key to their success, with winning being a by-product of this unity. The team's structure mirrors an NRL squad, with a consistent lineup and key football staff from year to year. This consistency has allowed them to build towards their long-term goal of the 2026 World Cup.
The team's focus, however, remains on the present. Co-captain Jarome Luai acknowledges the 2026 World Cup as a long-term goal but emphasizes the team's current mission to win the Pacific Cup. Despite the absence of injured players like Crichton and Leniu, the team has been united in their preparations, with both players present for all of Samoa's Pacific Cup final preparations. The team also fosters regular connections among players through a weekly 'player of the week' announcement.
Samoa's rugby league team stands on the brink of history, ready to face New Zealand in the Pacific Cup final. With a victory, they can achieve one of the country's greatest sporting feats. Led by Gardiner, the team's unity and focus have been their hallmarks, setting them up for success both in the present and in their ultimate goal of the 2026 World Cup.
