PNG LNG Kumuls

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.

Martin Out, Goma In 

http://www.looppng.com/content/martin-out-goma

PNG LNG Kumuls back rower Rhyse Martin has withdrawn from the Kumuls team to meet the Fijian Batis in this weekend’s Pacific Test due to personal reasons.

Hunters win Stan Joyce Cup defeating Dolphins

Coach Michael Marum revealed this afternoon that Martin had asked to withdraw from the team.

“It is unfortunate for us but Rhyse has requested that he could not join the Kumuls this week and we respect that. He has some personal issues to attend to and have allowed him to do that,” Marum said.

Marum said Edward Goma will replace Martin. Goma will be the 11^th SP Hunters player in the PNG LNG Kumul Team.

He said all 11 players were passed fit after their gruelling 22-18 win over Redcliffe Dolphins this afternoon.

The side was announced today at the Ela Beach Hotel by Kumuls coach, Michael Marum in the presence of PNG Rugby Football League Directors, Don Fox, Graham Osborne and Senior Media and Communications Advisor for ExxonMobil, Steven Busin.

The five debutants-  Justin Olam on the wing with Stargroth Amean to play on the other wing.

Watson Boas gets the nod at halfback and will partner his brother Ase in the halves. Ase made his debut back in 2013.

Henry Noki will also make his debut at prop and Canberra Raiders Kurt Baptist has been named on the bench.