IRB Rugby World Cup
London Irish flanker Treviranus to captain Somoa against All Blacks
ESPN Staff
June 29, 2015
Ofisa Treviranus
Ofisa Treviranus© (Photo by Dino Panato/Getty Images)

London Irish flanker Ofisa Treviranus will captain Samoa in their first-ever home Test against New Zealand next week.

The 31-year-old back-row will lead out his country for the first time when they welcome the All Blacks to Apia Stadium on July 8.

It should prove a momentous occasion with New Zealand playing their maiden capped game in the Pacific Islands, following pressure from fans around the world.

"I thank God for this opportunity. It's not going to be an easy one. I didn't expect this to be honest," Treviranus said.

"It is a great honour to be asked to captain this side as we prepare to host the All Blacks.

"I know that my primary job is to earn my own selection into the starting team and then from there I will do my best to provide the leadership that's been asked of me."

Samoa coach Stephen Betham said: "Ofisa is a strong force in the Manu Samoa environment and he has the respect of the players on and off the field."

© ESPN Staff

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices