Segeyaro to lead PNG Kumuls

PNG LNG Kumuls coach Michael Marum has named James Segeyaro as captain of the PNG LNG Kumuls.

He will lead the team for Saturday’s Oceania Cup Pacific Test against Toa Samoa at Leichhardt, west of Sydney in New South Wales, Australia.

The 28-year-old, originally from the Eastern Highlands, will captain the national side for the second time.

He was captain in the Pacific Test match against Fiji Batis last year.

“James led the PNG LNG Kumuls to a 26-14 win against Fiji and I had no hesitation in appointing him again to captain the national team this Saturday against Samoa,” Marum said from the team hotel in Sydney on Wednesday.

Segeyaro became Kumul No. 282 when he debuted in the Rugby League World Cup game against Wales in Port Moresby in 2017. He went on to play the next three games, including the quarterfinal loss against England in Melbourne.

“This will be James’ sixth Test appearance as a Kumul. He is well respected in the team and shows leadership both on and off the field,” Marum said.

“I'm sure he'll go out there and lead his country well and, with his father (late) Ifisoe Segeyaro being a former Kumul (No.70), this will mean a lot to him,” Marum said.

Segeyaro said: “It’s a massive honour to be named captain again. Representing my country and my people is an honour. It’s a privilege to put on the PNG Kumul jersey for any game.

“I would like to thank Coach Michael Marum and the coaching staff for the confidence in me and my family for their support over the years that has helped me come this far.”

The PNG LNG Kumuls play Toa Samoa in the first of the Pool B Oceania Cup Pacific Test at 7.55pm this Saturday (June 22) at Leichhardt oval in Sydney.

Author: 
Press release