Toa Samoa have named their 23-man squad for their opening match of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup against France, with co-captains Jarome Luai and Junior Paulo set to lead the side into the tournament.
Luai will lead the side from halfback, partnering Chanel Harris-Tavita in the halves, while co-captain Junior Paulo will anchor the forward pack. The starting backline features Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow at fullback, with Brian To’o and Deine Mariner on the wings and Izack Tago and Stephen Crichton in the centres. Up front, Francis Molo and Paulo will lead the forward rotation, with hooker Benaiah Ioelu named at dummy-half. Connelly Lemuelu and Jermaine McEwen join lock Francis Manuleleua in the starting pack. Jazz Tevaga, Spencer Leniu, Shawn Blore Anae Ulusese and Sualauvi Fa’alogo have been named on the interchange bench, providing options across the forwards and backs. Ata Mariota and Clayton Faulalo are listed as reserves, alongside Ronald Mataia-Volkman, Pasami Saulo, Enari Tuala and Eddie Ieremia-Toeva.
Toa Samoa will look to make a strong start to their World Cup campaign against France as the squad begins its pursuit of success on the international stage.
Toa Samoa Team List
2026 Rugby League World Cup | Round One vs France
Starting XIII
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
- Brian To’o
- Izack Tago
- Stephen Crichton
- Deine Mariner
- Chanel Harris-Tavita
- Jarome Luai (c)
- Francis Molo
- Benaiah Ioelu
- Junior Paulo (c)
- Connelly Lemuelu
- Jermaine McEwen
- Francis Manuleleua
Interchange
- Jazz Tevaga
- Spencer Leniu
- Shawn Blore Anae Ulusese
- Sualauvi Fa’alogo
Reserves
- Ata Mariota
- Clayton Faulalo
- Ronald Mataia-Volkman
- Pasami Saulo
- Enari Tuala
- Eddie Ieremia-Toeva
