Sam joined the Scarlets after playing every game for Tonga at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. He had been a regular for New Zealand Super Rugby side the Hurricanes since making his debut in 2017 and was in the starting line-up that took on the British and Irish Lions the same year. Born in Auckland, Sam had previously played for the Waratahs in Australia and rugby league for the New Zealand Warriors NRL team in his early rugby career. Enjoyed an outstanding 2021-22 campaign and was voted the Scarlets' fans and players player of the season. Returned to international duty with Tonga during the 2022 Pacific Nations Cup and was part of the squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Regarded as one of the leading second rows in the URC. After reaching a century of appearances for the club, Sam has signed a new contract extending his stay in west Wales.