Exactly a year ago, the PNG Pukpuks had introduced a new contingent, who went all the way through to reclaiming the federation of Oceania Cup in Port Moresby.
This time around, with the Asian Cup of Nations added to their calendar of events, Coach Sydney Wesley has made the call to retain the same playing group, with the hope of building them into next year’s World Cup qualifier.
“The squad, as it stands, and the numbers that we have is what we will take through unless there is some major concerns to injury or form, also including a few fringe players,” said Wesley.
Over the weekend, the squad had their fair share of fitness, playing in the National Provincial Championships, giving light to Wesley’s focus on strength and conditioning.
This week, the team made up of players from around the country, and Brisbane, will face their first trial match.
These trials will be a platform for the squad to prove their form, to maintain their spot in the 15 man team.
“The first trials will be played during the week. After the first trial we will go back and do a bit more runs at training and hopefully by next week, will have a finalised squad to take to Hong Kong,” Wesley said.
The only changes that have been released, is the exclusion of Scott Daruda and Henari Veratau, who have previously represented Australia, and will need World Rugby to mandate their selection.
“For Henari and Scott’s case, they would definitely add a bonus. Unfortunately, we’re still waiting for World Rugby to give the clearance. But in any case, they will still come in handy, come the World Cup qualifier next year,” Wesley added.
