Nixon Put

Moses Meninga, Nixon Put and Wartovo Puara Jr have all been named on the extended bench.

“Last weekend we didn’t know too much about the Wales side so put in four hookers. This weekend against Ireland will be much tougher so we made the change with Kurt starting at hooker and James at first receiver,” says coach Michael Marum.

“Wartovo is still on the extended bench so if there’s any changes to be made, we can always call on him.

“Stargroth missed last weekend so he’s starting from the bench.”

The shy 21 year old Western Highlander played a hand in the win scoring one of the five tries in the Kumuls 32-22 triumph over the Cook Islands.

Put made his debut back in 2014 playing on the wing for the Mt. Hagen Eagles in the Digicel Cup competition.

2016 saw him shift into playing second-rower and after a stellar performance in the semi-professional competition, he got the nod from SP Hunters coach, Michael Marum.

 “I always prepare to slay my targets in every game and making it into the SP Hunters was one of my dreams.

The 21 year old from Western Highlands was one of three debutants named in Michael Marum’s starting line-up, after an impressive performance against Northern Pride last weekend.

“I’m thankful to the coach for his trust in me. I’ve been training hard for this. I’m looking forward and will give my best tomorrow.

“The senior players have been really helpful and I’m really happy to be getting the chance to play alongside them,” said Put.

Put becomes Hunter number 48. The other two debutants that will take the field tomorrow are Moses Meninga (48) and Karo Kauna (49).

The 21 year old who joined the Hunters after three seasons with the Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles said it will be a dream come true to be able to take the field with the same players he looked up to when he was in high school.

“This will be my first game and also my first time to travel out of the country. I’m very excited and I will give it my best.

“The training was hard at first, not what I was used to playing in the Digicel Cup. It’s on a much higher level. I’m looking forward to this weekend,” said Put.