Captain Hansen missing for Samoa

Samoa have been dealt a blow with the news that captain Harrison Hansen will miss their World Cup opener against New Zealand.

Hansen, who made one appearance for the Kiwis back in 2006, went off injured during the 52-16 defeat to England Knights last Saturday and hasn’t recovered in time to take his place in the line-up.

He joins Tim Lafai, who was sin-binned in the same game, on the sidelines, after he was handed a one-match ban during the week.

Hansen was named as captain by coach Matt Parish in the aftermath of the Knights defeat.

The Samoans had expected to be captained by South Sydney prop Roy Asotasi, but the Warrington-bound star withdrew from the squad on the eve of the tournament through injury.

Samoa squad: Leeson Ah Mau (St George), David Faalogo (Newcastle), Pita Godinet (NZ Warriors), Harrison Hansen (Wigan), Joseph Leilua (Newcastle), Reni Maitua (Parramatta), Penani Manumaleaii (Cronulla), Mose Masoe (Penrith), Suai Matagi (NZ Warriors), Anthony Milford (Canberra), Junior Sau‘u (Melbourne), Iosia Soliola (St Helens), Sauaso Sue (Wests), Mark Taufua (Cronulla), Daniel Vidot (St George), Antonio Winterstein (Brisbane), Frank Winterstein (Widnes).