Reformed Pacific Islanders to face Ireland in 2006 test match

The Pacific Islanders will play five tests in 2006, including historic tests against Ireland, Scotland and Wales, after its three member unions pledged to reform the team.

Fiji, Tonga and Samoa committed to the Pacific Islanders concept and the International Rugby Board’s playing schedule for next year at a meeting in Wellington earlier this month.

The Pacific Islanders’ five-test programme for next year also includes matches against the All Blacks and Italy in the June international window.