Melbourne Storm’s Ativalu Lisati Joins Toa Samoa Team
Ativalu Lisati, a forward with the Melbourne Storm, has earned his first international call-up to the Toa Samoa team for the ongoing Pacific Championships. The 24-year-old prop is slated to join the bench for Samoa’s upcoming match against Tonga, taking place at Suncorp Stadium.
Lisati’s Career Progression
Standing at 6 feet and weighing 100 kg, Lisati replaces teammate Ata Mariota, who suffered a severe head injury during a previous game. Mariota was active on the field except for one minute against the Kiwi team before being taken off. Lisati’s inclusion follows an impressive 2025 season, where he participated in 14 matches and was recognized as the Billy Slater Rookie of the Year at Melbourne Storm’s Player of the Year Awards.
Changes in the Samoa Squad
Samoa has also faced challenges with player injuries. Jaydn Su’a and Jazz Tevaga will not participate due to concussions. Su’a had a solid performance in the second row until his injury. In response to these changes, Simi Sasagi will move from the bench into the starting lineup in place of Su’a. Additionally, Benaiah Ioelu, who made his debut against the Kiwi team, will take Sasagi’s previous bench position.
Other Melbourne Storm Players on International Duty
Several players from the Melbourne Storm will showcase their talents representing other nations. Forward Stefano Utoikamanu and Eli Katoa have been called up to the Tonga squad for their match on the same day. Utoikamanu will play as a prop while Katoa will take his position in the second row.
Australian Camp and Fiji’s Victory
Meanwhile, the Storm’s captain Harry Grant and vice-captain Cameron Munster are set to compete for the Australian Kangaroos in their Ashes campaign against England at Wembley Stadium. The match is scheduled for a 12:30 AM kick-off on Sunday.
In another highlight, Storm prop Tui Kamikamica recently led Fiji to a 44–22 victory over the Cook Islands in Port Moresby. Fiji built a strong 28–6 lead at halftime, managing to maintain their advantage despite a comeback attempt from the Cook Islands. Fiji will next face Papua New Guinea on Saturday, November 1, at 4 PM.
