Rhyse Martin

The Papua New Guinea international bravely stepped forward to play against Warrington Wolves last weekend just days after the sudden death of his father.

Martin is one of five players who played in the 22-20 defeat against the Wolves who were not included in Richard Agar’s 21-man squad who played Wigan Warriors on Friday.

The Martin family announced the sudden passing of their father Stephen Bonaventure Martin (64 years old) of Townsville early this month.

The announcement was officially made today by the PNG LNG Kumul coach, Michael Marum.

Martin replaces James Segeyaro, who was originally named as captain of the side.

Being the most capped PNG Kumul player coupled with his vast NRL experience and great leadership quality, Martin stands out as the right candidate for captaincy.

Maroons Coach Kevin Walters made the announcement on Monday, December 17^th.

Martin (25), who grew up in Queensland, has been a strong performer for the Kumuls, especially during the 2017 World Cup.

This season he achieved his goal of playing in the NRL, with a memorable debut against the Brisbane Broncos in Round Nine, where he scored a try with his very first touch of the ball.

Macdonald debuted with the Roosters as a 20-year-old in 2014 and has emerged as one of competition’s top wingers during his stints with the Titans and Dragons.

This week, MTSL through Pacific Balanced Fund Agro-Business presented cash awards to David Mead (best back) and Rhyse Martin (best forward) for their outstanding performances in the PNG LNG Kumuls 50-6 win over Wales.

Martin thanked MTSL saying it was an honour to be recognised for his efforts. Mead added on expressing his appreciation for the award.

General manager of Pacific Balanced Fund Agro-Business, Jerry Simon, said this was part of MTSL’s continued support from the SP Hunters and now to the PNG LNG Kumuls.

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.