Rugby League World Cup : PNG Kumuls Name Team To Take On Samoa

The Papua New Guinea Kumuls face a major test against Toa Samoa after opening their 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign with a 42-18 victory over Lebanon in Port Moresby.

Samoa, meanwhile, made a strong statement with a commanding 78-4 win over France. The results have set up an important clash between the two Pacific rivals, with the Kumuls needing another strong performance to challenge a Samoan side that demonstrated its attacking power in the opening round.

Head coach Jason Demetriou has named his team for the encounter, combining experienced campaigners with emerging talent as PNG prepare for the challenge ahead.

The Kumuls showed their scoring ability against Lebanon, but the match against Samoa is expected to demand greater discipline in defence, better control of possession and clinical execution in attack.

With Samoa coming off a convincing victory, the Kumuls will need to rise to the occasion and make the most of their opportunities if they are to maintain their winning momentum.

Head Coach: Jason Demetriou

Starting Team
1. Morea Morea
2. Robert Derby
3. Zac Laybutt
4. Nene McDonald
5. Dudley Dotoi
6. Gairo Voro
7. Bailey Bondo-Odo
8. Epel Kapinias
9. Edwin Ipape
10. Luca Moretti
11. Rhyse Martin
12. Nixon Putt
13. Jack de Belin
Interchange
14. Finley Glare
15. Liam Horne
16. Valentine Richard
17. Khaiya Waiembi
18. Rodrick Tai
19. Joshua Feledy
The clash against Samoa will be a crucial test of the Kumuls' ambitions in the tournament. With passionate home support behind them, PNG will be determined to build on their opening victory and prove they can compete with the strongest teams in the competition.