Three former All Blacks have switched allegiance to Samoa, handing the Pacific Islanders a major boost ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

All three have worn the famous black jersey, but will now get the chance to play for Samoa.

It's a welcome lift for head coach Tusi Pisi, who is looking to build a side that can cause a few shocks in Australia next year.

The trio were confirmed in the 30-man squad announced earlier this month.

Three former All Blacks switch to Samoa

1. Akira Ioane

The biggest name on the list, and a player Samoa fans will be keen to see in action.

Ioane won 21 caps for New Zealand between 2020 and 2022. He made his Test debut against Australia and went on to become a regular option in the back row.

The former Blues forward is a powerful ball carrier who can play at flanker or number eight.

At his best, he's a real handful for any defence.

2. Josh Ioane

The former Highlanders fly-half earned his only All Blacks cap against Tonga in 2019.

He was once seen as one of New Zealand's brightest young playmakers, but never managed to nail down a place in the Test side.

Now he has another shot at international rugby.

His ability to play flat and attack the line could give Samoa a different option at number ten.

3. Shaun Stevenson

Stevenson made his sole All Blacks appearance against Australia in 2023.

The full-back made his name with the Chiefs, where his pace, footwork and eye for a gap made him a fan favourite.

He can also play on the wing, giving Samoa more options across the back three.

Of the three new arrivals, Stevenson could be the one who brings the most excitement with ball in hand.

Pick your All Blacks XV for the autumn internationals

Who deserves a place in the All Blacks starting XV this autumn? Take charge, pick your dream team and see how your selections compare with other New Zealand fans.

Samoa handed World Cup boost

World Rugby's eligibility rules allow players to make a one-time switch after three years away from Test rugby, provided they have the right family or birth ties and gain approval.

The rule has already helped several Pacific Island nations bring in players who once represented bigger rugby powers.

Samoa will hope this latest trio can make a similar impact.

They have been drawn alongside France, Japan and the United States at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

France will start as strong favourites in that pool, but Samoa will fancy their chances of making life difficult for the other sides.

And with three former All Blacks joining the squad, they'll have a few more reasons to feel confident.

Fans can follow the latest Samoa rugby news as the side builds towards next year's tournament.