PNG Kumuls Face Tough World Cup Road With Samoa And England In Group
PNG will have to overcome a difficult group if the Kumuls are to progress deep into the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with coach Jason Demetriou preparing his side for clashes against Lebanon, Samoa and England.
The Kumuls' opening two matches will be played in Port Moresby before the team heads to Wollongong for a potentially decisive encounter with England.
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| Kumuls forward Rhys Martin |
PNG's latest World Cup squad includes players from the NRL, English Super League, Queensland competitions and the domestic game.
De Belin and Josh Feledy are among the notable inclusions, while the squad also features Derby, Biondi-Odo, Laybutt, Macdonald, Martin and Moretti, who have experience at NRL level.
A strong contingent from London Broncos is also represented, reflecting the growing number of PNG-qualified players competing in the English competition.
The Kumuls reached the last eight at the previous World Cup but will have little room for error under the new competition format.
One of the biggest disappointments for PNG is the absence of Johnston. The South Sydney star is sidelined by injury, depriving the Kumuls of one of their most dangerous attacking weapons.
Johnston's absence leaves greater responsibility on the remaining backs as PNG prepares for its opening match against Lebanon.
After that game, Samoa awaits in Port Moresby before the Kumuls travel to Wollongong to face England.
Demetriou has also identified three reserve options, with Alex Max, Kyle Laybutt and Jacob Taulani named as shadow players.
23-MAN PNG KUMULS WORLD CUP SQUAD
- Jack de Belin – Parramatta Eels
- Robert Derby – North Queensland Cowboys
- Dudley Dotoi – Townsville Blackhawks
- Josh Feledy – Manly Sea Eagles
- Finley Glare – London Broncos
- Liam Horne – Leigh Leopards
- Edwin Ipape – Leigh Leopards
- Zev John – Central Queensland Capras
- Epel Kapinias – London Broncos
- Bailey Biondi-Odo – Townsville Blackhawks
- Zac Laybutt – North Queensland Cowboys
- Nene Macdonald – St Helens
- Rhyse Martin – Hull KR
- Robert Mathias – London Broncos
- Morea Morea Jnr – London Broncos
- Luca Moretti – Parramatta Eels
- Sylvester Namo – Brisbane Tigers
- Nixon Putt – Central Queensland Capras
- Rodrick Tai – Central Queensland Capras
- Valentine Richard – PNG Hunters
- Gairo Voro – London Broncos
- Sanny Wabo – PNG Hunters
- Khaiya Waiembi – PNG Hunters
SHADOW PLAYERS
Alex Max – London Broncos
Kyle Laybutt – Townsville Blackhawks
Jacob Taulani – Newcastle Knights
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