David Mead

The news was announced this week by Kumuls coach, Michael Marum

“David (Mead) has been a PNG Kumul since 2008.

“ He is one of the most senior players in the side now and with his NRL experience having played for the Gold Coast Titans since 2009 at the highest level, I have every confidence he will lead the Kumuls well during our preparations this week and the game against Fiji on Saturday,” said Marum.

Marum added there will be no vice-captain for this game.

Mead represented PNG at the 2008 World Cup in Australia and the 2013 World Cup in England.

On the back of their 30-12 win over Newcastle last Sunday Henry has taken the luxury of naming both Zillman and Luke Douglas (suspension) on an extended bench while retaining the same 13 that took the field against the Knights.

Interchange forward Eddy Pettybourne is in doubt with a severe cork to his thigh which would open the door for Douglas, the club's reigning player of the year, to come straight back into the 17.

Kiunga under siege after man shot dead

http://www.looppng.com/content/kiunga-under-siege-after-man-shot-dead

The mining township of Kiunga in the Western Province was brought to a standstill after rioting and looting broke out today.

Portion 152 LNG plant landowners threaten to shutdown project

Heading into the 2016 season Mead and co-captain William Zillman are the only two backs who have played more than 100 games for the Titans, Mead's connection stretching back nine seasons to Gold Coast's inaugural under-20s team in 2008.

Named on the wing for Saturday night's trial against the Rabbitohs at Pizzey Park, the 27-year-old will be surrounded by youngsters pushing for inclusion in Neil Henry's Round 1 team to face the Knights.