Eagle Men Pick Roster for Fall Internationals

10.17.2025

(USA Rugby Release)-Capping off a busy and exciting year, the USA Men’s Eagles are set to cross the Atlantic this November for a three-match tour against Scotland, Georgia and Romania.

Head Coach and General Manager, Scott Lawrence has named the traveling squad for the upcoming tour, with a primary list of full tour participants, a shortlist of players available for the final two fixtures in Georgia and Romania and non-traveling reserves.

2024 Olympian Malacchi Esdale will make his first appearance on a USA fifteens touring roster following his return to Major League Rugby this past season. Forwards David Ainu’u and Mikey Sosene-Feagai return from injury to the squad for the first time in 2025, joining Michael Baska who makes his first return to international duty since 2022. David Anu’u, Tonga Kofe, Rufus McLean and Nafi Ma’afu will not compete during the first round in Scotland, however they are projected to be available during the final two tests in Georgia (Nov 8) and Romania (Nov 15).

With the primary goal of 2025 now complete, that being Rugby World Cup qualification secured in September, the USA Men’s Eagles charge toward the Autumn tour with eyes fixed on identifying and cultivating a Rugby World Cup caliber team. The fall tour will see the Eagles face off with an eclectic mix of opposition, and importantly three more opportunities to construct a team on the rise. The USA currently sit 15th in World Rugby rankings, moving up a position at the conclusion of the Pacific Nations Cup, where this three-match tour will be an opportunity to keep pace; as the rankings will influence Rugby World Cup draw positions on December 3rd.

“The autumn tour always presents an opportunity to measure the team against what is required to be competitive in international rugby; preparing for a two-stage tour with the dynamics of Regulation 9, extended travel between countries and competing on opposing turf," said Lawrence. "The opening match against Scotland is a notable opportunity against a top team, setting the stage for two substantial games that follow in Georgia and Romania.”