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Lachlan Lam, the dynamic playmaker for Leigh Leopards in the English Super League, has been officially named captain of the Papua New Guinea Kumuls as they gear up for their upcoming clash against the Cook Islands. This significant appointment carries great weight, as Lam steps into a leadership role that honors the legacy of his father, Adrian Lam, a former captain of the Kumuls and an influential figure in Papua New Guinea rugby history. With his leadership, Lam is expected to motivate and inspire both his teammates and the passionate supporters of the national team.

 Lachlan Lam Appointed Captain of PNG Kumuls Ahead of Cook Islands Match [Photo by PNG LNG Kumuls]

The highly anticipated match is set for Sunday, 3rd November, at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The Kumuls are determined to secure a strong victory, with Lam’s extensive experience in the Super League playing a crucial role in guiding the team against a formidable Cook Islands side. The stakes for this match are significant; a victory will not only see the Kumuls retain the bowl but also earn them a promotional match against a tier 1 nation, scheduled for 10th November at CommBank Stadium in Sydney, Australia.

Lam’s influence on the field is expected to be pivotal, especially with a well-structured lineup designed to maximize the strengths of each player. The backs consist of Nene MacDonald, Elijah Roltinga, Robert Mathias, Rodrick Tai, and Robert Derby, who bring a combination of speed and tactical acumen that will be essential for both defense and attacking plays. Their agility and experience are anticipated to apply constant pressure on the Cook Islands throughout the match.

In the halves, Lachlan Lam will team up with Kyle Laybutt, whose coordination with Lam will be crucial for executing effective plays and managing ball distribution. Lam’s familiarity with high-pressure situations, honed during his time in the Super League, is expected to be invaluable as he leads the team's strategic efforts on the field.

The forward pack, featuring Valentine Richard, Judah Rimbu, Jacob Alick-Wiencke, Dan Russell, Jeremiah Simbiken, and Jack de Belin, will provide the necessary physicality and endurance to dominate tackles and scrums. Their ability to maintain possession and control the game will be vital in securing a win against the Cook Islands.

Completing the roster, the bench includes Liam Horne, Koso Bandi, Illa Alu, and Sylvester Namo, all of whom are prepared to inject fresh energy and maintain momentum throughout the match. Their readiness allows the coaching staff to make strategic substitutions, adapting to the game's dynamics as needed.

The complete lineup for the PNG Kumuls facing the Cook Islands is as follows:

Backs:

1. Nene MacDonald
2. Elijah Roltinga
3. Robert Mathias
4. Rodrick Tai
5. Robert Derby

Halves:

6. Kyle Laybutt

7. Captain Lachlan Lam

Forwards:

8. Valentine Richard

9. Judah Rimbu

10. Jacob Alick-Wiencke

11. Dan Russell

12. Jeremiah Simbiken

13. Jack de Belin

Bench:

14. Liam Horne

15. Koso Bandi

16. Illa Alu

17. Sylvester Namo

A win for the Kumuls would set the stage for a promotional match on 10th November at CommBank Stadium in Sydney, heightening the excitement for fans and players alike.

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