By GABRIEL KATUHO
MOREA Morea Jnr is proud to take on the responsibility of wearing the number one jersey after being named in the starting line-up as the Papua New Guinea Kumuls fullback by head coach Jason Demetriou.
Speaking in an interview yesterday, Morea said it was a special moment for him and a significant achievement to represent his country on the international stage.
Morea, along with four other Papua New Guinean players, enjoyed a successful season with the London Broncos and is now preparing to represent the Kumuls at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Reflecting on his experience with the London-based club, Morea spoke highly of the team and its culture, saying the transition was initially challenging but became easier because the PNG players were together as a group.
“It was good, although at first, we found it a little bit difficult to transition. But it was good that we went there as a group,” he said.
Morea also acknowledged the support provided by London Broncos and Kumuls coach Jason Demetriou, saying their guidance helped the players settle in and perform well.
“Our game there, too, was incredible,” he said.
“We were able to win three trophies as well and ended our season on a high note,” Morea added.
For the Kumuls fullback, representing Papua New Guinea and its people remains a special privilege.
“It’s very special. The Kumuls are a national team, and for the coach to trust me with the number one jersey is a big achievement for me,” he said.
“There is a big expectation for the country, and it is a privilege to be here and represent the country against Lebanon this weekend,” Morea said.
Having played together for a season with the London Broncos and won the 2026 Betfred Championship, Morea and the other PNG players in the Kumuls squad have developed strong combinations that could prove valuable to the national side.
“It’s exciting because we have built the combinations over there, and it’s a special thing if we could do the same here,” he said.
Morea is now focused on the Kumuls’ opening match against the Lebanon Cedars on Saturday as the team prepares for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
He urged home fans and supporters to rally behind the team and show their support as the Kumuls take the field to represent Papua New Guinea.