This is an historic occasion for Moana Pasifika being the first time the inaugural Super Rugby Pacific squad will play on their home ground, Mt Smart Stadium (kick off 7.05pm).
Under the current government restrictions, no spectators are allowed at the match. However, Sky Television have partnered with Moana Pasifika and will have live coverage in New Zealand from 6.30pm. The match will also be free to air on Prime.
Mauger is excited for the challenge that the Chiefs will bring to his newly-formed side.
“They’re a tough side who are renowned for their physicality and flare. This is our first chance to get a measure of where we are at compared to our opposition.”
Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan said the transfer to Queenstown had presented some challenges. He felt for the families of the squad members and coaching staff and the home fans who had not seen as much rugby as they would have liked in Hamilton over the last two years.
But he said that was all part of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the key thing was understanding and controlling what they could.
Moana Pasifika (first 30 minutes): William Havili, Anzelo Tuitavuki, Levi Aumua, Danny Toala, Neria Foma’i, Lincoln McClutchie, Ereatara Enari, Henry Time-Stowers, Alamanda Motuga, Sione Tu’ipulotu, Samuel Slade, Mike McKee, Sekope Kepu, Luteru Tolai, Isi Tuungafasi.
Moana Pasifika (second 30 minutes): William Havili, Anzelo Tuitavuk/Tima Fainga’anuku, Levi Aumua/Solomone Kata, Danny Toala/Henry Taefu, Tomasi Alosio, Lincoln McClutchie, Jonathan Taumateine, Henry Time-Stowers, Alamana Motuga, Alex McRobbie, Dan Lolo, Mike McKee/Veikoso Poloniati, Sekope Kepu/Tau Koloamatagi, Ray Niuia, Isi Tuungafasi/Ezekiel Lindenmuth.
Moana Pasifika (third 30 minutes): D’Angelo Leuila, Tima Fainga’anuku, Solomone Kata, Henry Taefu, Fine Inisi, Christian Leali’ifano, Manu Paea, Lotu Inisi, Niko Jones, Felix Kalapu, Alex McRobbie, Veikoso Poloniati, Tau Koloamatangi, Samiuela Moli, Ezekiel Lindenmuth.
Additional reserves: Xavier Cowley-Tuioti, Jone Macilai-Tori, Suetena Asomua
The massive eruption of Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai, and the ensuing tsunami it caused, resulted in devastation throughout Tonga, including at least three deaths and widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure.
Since then, various relief efforts have begun to help provide aid to victims, with Moana Pasifika jumping onboard by confirming on Friday that all proceeds from their clash against the Chiefs at Mt Smart Stadium on February 4 will be donated to Tonga.