By GABRIEL KATUHO
Sharks Centre and Cook Islands Aitu Captain KL Iro is happy to wear the cook’s jersey for tomorrow’s Pacific Championship Bowl opener in Port Moresby’s Santos National Football Stadium.
Speaking during an interview today he expressed his gratitude to put on the jersey with pride and represent his families back home.
“I was looking forward all year to get back to the camp this year so I am happy. I’m fit, healthy and ready to put on the jersey on the weekend,” he stated.
Putting on Cook Islands jersey means a lot to the Sharks center who missed out last year’s Pacific Championships due to injury.
“This jersey means a lot to me and my family. Can’t see myself in another jersey. This is what I always wanted to play as a kid so I have to put the jersey with pride,” he stated.
“It means a lot for my people back home. Many Wouldn’t think I’m much of a captain but I promised the boys that I will lead on the field. I don’t really speak too much but I will lead by my actions this weekend,” he affirmed.
With Brandon Piakura (Brisbane Broncos), Marata Niukore (New Zealand Warriors) to back him, KL Iro is looking forward for a good game tomorrow.
Coach Karmichael Hunt is happy that three of the NRL players are in the team to give confidence for the boys as they take on the Bati’s.
“We have three of our top one players of the competition to come back and play for our nation, you can only imagine that boosts the confidence,” Hunt stated.
He said the NRL players have been doing that for the last couple of years so as a coach he is happy the have them in camp and helping him to lead the young players.
“We have met Fiji in last couple of years, so we know what to expect. We know that they are not probably a full strength, they missed a couple of players but that does not change our preparation. We know we are preparing for the physical battle tomorrow.