By CHARLIE DUMAVI
THE display of Prime Minister’s 13 match between the Australian Kangaroos and PNG Kumuls has paved the way for the upcoming Pacific Championship next month.
However, many of PNG PM’s players securing a spot in the Kumuls jersey may prove challenging when top players return at the end of their respective league seasons for the Pacific tests.
Chairman of PNG Kumuls, Wapu Sonk clarified that the PM’s 13 side that played in the recent match largely consisted of players who didn’t participate in the top-tier competition finals with their respective teams.
The Pacific Test squad, however, will have a different composition.
“For the tri-nations, we will announce the teams separately from this PM’s 13.
“The PM’s 13 team is mostly made up of players in the Hunters and Queensland Cup who are not playing in the NRL finals,” Sonk said.
He emphasised that while the PM’s 13 team will be considered, it won’t be the sole determinant for the selection of the Pacific Test squad.
PNG PM’s 13 Head Coach, Justine Holbrook highlighted the game as an excellent opportunity for the PNG players to compete against the visiting Australian side.
He mentioned the availability of a pool of NRL and Super League players next month to represent PNG against Fiji and the Cook Islands in Port Moresby.
Holbrook explained that the PNG side comprises a mix of players from the National Rugby League (PNGRFL), PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC), and the Hostplus Cup.
He sees the PM’s 13 match as a platform for younger, especially less-established players to prove their mettle and vie for a spot in the 20-men squad for the upcoming Pacific Test.
“Obviously Pacific test coming up, we got some guys in great form over in Super League (England) and few other guys in the NRL that will join for the Pacific Test.
“However, this (PM’s 13) is a good opportunity for these younger guys who are not so well established to try and push to make the 20 men squad,” Coach Holbrook said.
Meanwhile, players who performed well in PM’s 13 match against Australia have a chance to represent PNG based on their stellar performance.
