All Blacks: Another test added to calendar

Another test match has been added to the All Blacks schedule in 2008.

New Zealand will face Manu Samoa in New Plymouth on September 3.

It is during a bye week in the Tri-Nations.

It will be the first time an All Blacks test has been played in New Plymouth.

New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) chief executive Steve Tew said the All Blacks needed an extra test as there was a four-week break between their Tri-Nations game against South Africa in Cape Town on August 17 and their final game of the series against Australia in Brisbane on September 13.

The NZRU had hoped to schedule a test against Argentina as part of an invitation for the Pumas to play South Africa, Australia and New Zealand during a break in the Tri-Nations.

"However, problems with arranging the release of Argentina's top players meant this was not going to be feasible so we are thankful that Samoa has agreed to play the All Blacks," Tew said.

The match will be played on September 3 (Wednesday) at 7.35pm to avoid a clash with Air New Zealand Cup matches.

Tew said the NZRU would also be helping the Samoa Rugby Union (SRU) with the costs associated with the test.

Samoa Rugby Union chief executive Peter Schuster it was "a fantastic opportunity."

- NZPA, NEWSTALK ZB

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