Manu Samoa’s 32 players for the Rugby World Cup in France were announced on Sunday afternoon and with that a strong message was given to the captains by Lakapi Samoa chairman Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Tuilaepa told the players that only the priviledged get to don the national jumper and wave the Samoan flag on the world stage.

“This is a special flag, the flag of freedom. If you remember our history and how so many countries tried to rule over Samoa and treat us like slaves,” he said.

“And we cannot forget the time when we were under foreign influence. It is the only way we can raise our flag and remind yourselves that you are proud Samoans.

“You must never forget where your roots are. These are my final words to you.”

Manu Samoa head coach Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua has announced a 32 men squad for the Rugby World Cup which includes Ben Lam and Lima Sopoaga.

Vaovasamanaia said he has been in contact with Lam and Sopoaga and believes that they will fit into the team despite not having played any matches so far with the team.

Michael Ala’alatoa and Chris Vui have been named as co-captains with youngster Miracle Fai’ilagi forcing his way into the squad.

Melani Matavao and Theodore McFarland have also been included in the squad which boasts a strong lineup.

Vaovasamanaia said it was difficult to pencil in the final names and he is taking the best players for a successful World Cup campaign.

He said it was never going to be an easy task as players have been committing themselves in training and improving as the weeks have progressed.

The coach said he will confirm one final player before they head to France on August 11.

Manu Samoa take on the Barbarians on August 18 and a week later they take on Ireland. Manu Samoa’s first game in the Rugby World Cup is on Sunday, September 17 at 2am (Samoa time).

The squad:

Nigel Ah Wong, Michael Ala’alatoa, Brian Alaiunuuese, Paul Alo-Emile, Ereatara Enari, So’otala Fa’aso’o, Miracle Fai’ilagi, Charlie Faumuina, Ed Fidow, Neria Fomai, Ben Lam, Seilala Lam, Jordon Lay, Christian Leali’ifano, Fritz lee, D’Angelo Leuila, Steven Luatua, Sama Malolo, Tumua Manu, Melani Matavao, Theodore McFarland, Alamanda Motuga, Duncan Paia’aua, Taleni Seu, Ulupano Junior Seuteni, Samuel Slade, Lima Sopoaga, Jordan Taufua, Jonathan Taumateine, Danny Tuala, Luteru Tolai, Chris Vui.