James Segeyaro has been named as Captain of the PNG LNG Kumuls in Saturday’s Pacific Test against Fiji Batis at Campbelltown, West of Sydney in New South Wales, Australia.
Coach Michael Marum made the announcement on Tuesday.
The 27 year old Eastern Highlander made his debut as Kumul No. 282 in the 2017 World Cup against Wales in Port Moresby and went on to play the next three games including their quarter final loss against England in Melbourne.
In a statement Marum said it is James' second year representing PNG and he has really settled into being a Kumul.
“He has been outstanding for Cronulla Sharks in their recent games, and has become one of the leaders at his club.
“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 was a massive honour to be named captain, especially being a second generation Kumul and it was the most rewarding he’s achieved so far in my career.
"Representing my country and my people is an honour. It’s a privilege to put on the Kumul jersey for any game, so to be captain is overwhelming,” Segeyaro said.
"I would like to thank Coach Michael Marum, the other coaching staff and my family for their support over the years that has helped me reach such a milestone.
“I’d also like to thank the people of PNG, especially the ones who stuck by me and always supported me whether I made the right decisions or not," he said.