Samoa’s Manusina XV are poised for a truly special moment in international rugby, with Masuisuimatamaalii Tauasa-Pauaraisa (Sui) and her daughter Marilyn-Rose Pauaraisa both named on the bench for today’s match.
In what will be a first for international test rugby, the mother-daughter duo are set to enter the field together — sharing the international stage in a moment that will capture the heart of Samoa and the region.
Their inclusion among the impact players adds a unique dimension to the match, where experience and emerging talent will combine not just for performance, but history.
Sui Pauaraisa’s career has long been defined by excellence. Recently honoured as the Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili Women’s Player of the Year at the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame, a long-time captain of the Manusina XV, and a representative of Samoa on the global stage on both codes (Union and League), she has competed across both sevens and fifteens, including elite competitions such as the Farah Palmer Cup and with the Melbourne Rebels.
Now, that journey comes full circle.
“It hasn’t really kicked in yet. But I think it will hit us tomorrow when we sing the national anthem. So I think that’s going to be very emotional,” Sui Pauaraisa said.
“I wanted to still play and thought it would be cool to play together with them. So that was our dream, to play together and on the same rugby field. We’re so excited.”
For Marilyn-Rose, the moment feels both familiar and deeply meaningful.
“I think it feels like club rugby because we play together. And two weeks ago before we came, we played together as the season has started back at home,” she said.
“I feel more safer when she’s on the field.” Marilyn Rose added.
“I think for me and my sister, we like watching our mom play and although this wasn’t part of the plan, I’m very grateful.”
As Manusina XV prepare to take on Lofa XV, the match carries added significance.
For Samoa and the wider Pacific rugby community, this is more than a selection — it is a milestone.
Manusina XV and Lofa XV have named their squads for today’s Round 2 clash in Lautoka 💥
Match Details: 🏉 Manusina XV 🇼🇸 vs Lofa XV 🇹🇴
📅 21 April, 2026
🕟 4:30PM
📍 Churchill Park, Lautoka
🎟️ Tickets: www.ticketmax.com.fj
📺 Watch LIVE on Vodafone Play App, FBC TV (Fiji) or RugbyPass internationally
#OceaniaRugby #ORWCXV #RiseOfThePacific
