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LONDON - The Pacific Islanders make their European rugby debut on Saturday with a test against Wales in the city where South Seas islands rugby came of age.
Western Samoa recorded the upset of the 1991 World Cup when they defeated Wales 16-13 in Cardiff.
They repeated the dose at the 1999 World Cup when they beat the home side 38-31 at the Millennium stadium.
In recognition of the untapped rugby potential throughout the region, the Pacific Islanders, a composite side selected from Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, were formed in 2003.
They made their debut in the following year with respectable, albeit losing performances, against Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
Coach Pat Lam, who scored an inspired intercept try against Wales in the 1999 match, said his side could upset the Welsh.
"I believe we have a squad that can shock Wales because we've got a lot of talented individuals," he told reporters.
"The key is trying to bring them together as a team in a short period of time. The next few days are crucial. Most of the guys are top players for their countries.
"Put them together and we should be right. But we will definitely entertain the crowd."
The side without their most spectacular player, the flying Fijian winger Rupeni Caucaunibuca who lost his passport and visa after returning to his French club Agen.
"Of course it would have been great to have Rupeni in the team but this squad has enormous strength in depth," added Lamb.
The squad includes eight British-based players, including Saracens lock Simon Raiwalui, who will captain the side.
"This is an historic day for Pacific Island rugby - these guys will carry this honour with them for the rest of their lives," he said.
Wales named their team on Wednesday with fullback Kevin Morgan the only starting player from the 29-29 draw with Australia last weekend to retain his place.
First five-eighth James Hook, who made an impressive home debut after coming on as replacement for injured captain Stephen Jones, has been named at centre.
"We don't have a great deal of background knowledge of the Pacific Islanders as a team but individually they are strong and fast and will pose a lot of problems," coach Gareth Jenkins said.
"However, our preparations have been more based on ourselves and making sure we get our game right to get a win."
Pacific Islanders team: Norman Ligairi, Lome Fa'atau, Seru Rabeni, Seilala Mapasua, Sailosi Tagicakibau; Tusi Pisi, Moses Rauluni; Hale T-Pole, Nili Latu, Semo Sititi, Daniel Leo, Simon Raiwalui (C), Tevita Taumoepeau, Mahonri Schwalger, Justin Va'a. Reserves: Aleki Lutui, Census Johnson, Ma'ama Molitika, Epi Taione, Junior Poluleuligaga, Seremaia Bai, Kameli Ratuvou.
- REUTERS
