PNG Kumuls duo, Rhyse Martin and Nene Macdonald, have been named in the ‘Emerging Maroons’ squad.
Maroons Coach Kevin Walters made the announcement on Monday, December 17th.
Martin (25), who grew up in Queensland, has been a strong performer for the Kumuls, especially during the 2017 World Cup.
This season he achieved his goal of playing in the NRL, with a memorable debut against the Brisbane Broncos in Round Nine, where he scored a try with his very first touch of the ball.
Macdonald debuted with the Roosters as a 20-year-old in 2014 and has emerged as one of competition’s top wingers during his stints with the Titans and Dragons.
He secured a release from the Dragons to sign a long-term deal with the Cowboys in order to be closer to family.
The 24-year-old has also made nine appearances for PNG since debuting at the 2013 World Cup and appeared for the NRL All Stars in 2016.
Emerging Queensland Origin squad: Joe Ofahengaue, Christian Welch, David Fifita, Jaydn Su’A, Rhyse Martin, Ash Taylor, Brodie Croft, Jake Clifford, Corey Norman, AJ Brimson, Phillip Sami, Tautau Moga, Nene Macdonald, Kyle Feldt, Brenko Lee.
(Nene Macdonal, left, during the two-test series against England Knights last month)