Share

Family affairs for Scotland's Maitland in RWC clash with Samoa

Kobe - Scotland wing Sean Maitland hopes he will have the family bragging rights following a Rugby World Cup match against Samoa on Monday.

The New Zealand-born flyer, who plays his club rugby for English champions Saracens could face his cousin, Pete Cowley, who will be on the bench for the Pacific islanders at the Kobe Misaki Stadium.

Injury meant scrumhalf Cowley missed out on the chance to play against his relatives when the two sides met at the World Cup in England four years ago, and Monday's match may prove to be the first time he has opposed Maitland in a Test.

Maitland, explaining his connection to Cowley, told reporters on Sunday: "So not many people know this, but my mum is half-Samoan.

"My grandad was born in Samoa and emigrated to New Zealand in the 1960s. My little cousin is actually on the bench for Samoa, so it's special for the family.

"We have a big contingent coming over for this game tomorrow. It should be good.

Maitland added: "We grew up together. It's pretty crazy where rugby takes you on this journey.

"He (Cowley) got injured the last World Cup. He was meant to play against us in Newcastle and that was a pretty cool game to play in and I'm sure tomorrow (Monday) night is going to be similar.

"I can't wait and hopefully he gets on and I get one up on him."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2244 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE