New Zealand confirm they will play first ever Test in Samoa next year as part of 2015 World Cup preparations

The reigning champions have been under political pressure to announce the fixture as they prepare to travel to the Pacific Island for the first time

Richie McCaw's New Zealand will play their first match in Samoa next summer (Getty Images)

The All Blacks will play a test in Samoa for the first time in July next year as part of both nations' preparation for the Rugby World Cup.

The New Zealand and Samoa rugby unions confirmed details of the match Tuesday after negotiations which were partly promoted by political pressure.

Samoa has been pressing for some time for the All Blacks to play a test in its capital, Apia, but New Zealand has resisted for financial and logistical reasons.

New Zealand 28 Argentina 9 match report

Earlier this year New Zealand Prime Minister John Key offered his support for the match, which had been urged by Samoa Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi who is also the chairman of the Samoa Rugby Union.

The test will be played at Apia Park on July 8, 2015.

AP