PNG Hunters launch independent probe into rocky season

The Papua New Guinea Hunters have brought in a respected Australian rugby league administrator to dig into what went wrong during a rough Hostplus Cup campaign this year. Former Queensland Rugby League managing director Rob Moore is now in the country, sitting down with players, coaches and management as part of an independent review ordered by the club.

Hunters chief executive Scott Barker confirmed the move, saying the review would take a hard look at the football department and try to pinpoint the reasons behind a season that fell well short of expectations. Moore's brief covers everything from coaching to medical support and how players were managed throughout the year, with his findings and recommendations to be handed directly to the PNG Hunters board.

 PNG Hunters launch independent probe into rocky season

According to Barker, Moore has been going through interviews with playing and coaching staff to build an accurate account of how the season unfolded. The Hunters battled through an extended losing streak this year before salvaging some pride with a victory over the Western Clydesdales at Santos National Football Stadium in their final outing.

Once Moore's assessment is finished, the board will weigh up his recommendations and decide on a path forward for rebuilding the side ahead of next season. Barker did not rule out personnel changes on either the playing roster or coaching staff, though he said any decisions would wait until the report lands.

The club has already made moves off the field, bringing PNG Kumuls legends Marcus Bai and John Wilshere onto its football committee — a step Barker described as part of a broader shake-up under way as the Hunters look toward 2027. Barker confirmed the squad will report back for pre-season training in November.

"Will there be some changes in playing and coaching staff? Yes, probably, but we'll wait until Rob's report comes out," Barker said.