Jack de Belin Joins Papua New Guinea Kumuls Pacific Test

In a surprising turn of events, Jack de Belin has announced that he will represent Papua New Guinea in the upcoming Pacific Cup. This is a major coup for the Kumuls, as de Belin is a seasoned NRL player with over 200 games to his name, and he has also represented New South Wales in State of Origin.

Here is the schedule for the Pacific Cup, check it out

Jack de Belin Papua New Guinea Kumuls 

De Belin had previously declined the opportunity to play for PNG, citing his lack of connection to the nation's culture and people. However, a change of heart has occurred for de Belin, thanks to an approach by newly-instated PNG coach Justin Holbrook, who had previously coached de Belin in the under-20s at St George Illawarra.

He will join a talented PNG squad, including players like Alex Johnston, Justin Olam, and his Dragons teammate Dan Russell, along with former NRL talents Nene MacDonald and Lachlan Lam. The 21-man squad also features Zac Laybutt, Kyle Laybutt, and Rhyse Martin, among others.

Papua New Guinea will kick off their Pacific Cup campaign in the second-tier bowl competition against Cook Islands on October 15 in Port Moresby. They will then face Fiji on October 29. With Jack de Belin's inclusion, the Kumuls' chances in the tournament are looking even more promising.

De Belin's impact on the Kumuls

De Belin's inclusion in the PNG squad is a significant boost for the Kumuls, both on and off the field. He is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience at the highest level of the game. He is also a tough and physical player who will bring added steel to the PNG pack.

Off the field, de Belin is a role model for young players. He is known for his hard work and dedication, and he is also a passionate advocate for the game of rugby league. His presence in the Kumuls squad will inspire other PNG players to strive for excellence.

PNG Kumuls Squad

Alex Johnston (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Benji Kot (PNG Hunters), Dan Russell (St. George Illawarra Dragons), Edwin Ipape (Leigh Leopards), Epel Kapinias (PNG Hunters), Jack de Belin (St George Illawarra Dragons), Jacob Alick (Gold Coast Titans), Judah Rimbu (PNG Hunters), Junior Rop (PNG Hunters), Justin Olam (Melbourne Storm), Kyle Laybutt (Townsville Blackhawks), Lachlan Lam (Leigh Leopards), Liam Horne (Castleford Tigers), Nene Macdonald (Leeds Rhinos), Nixon Putt (Castleford Tigers), Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos), Robert Derby (North Queensland Cowboys), Rodrick Tai (PNG Hunters), Valentine Richard (Central Qld Capras), Wellington Albert (London Broncos), Zac Laybutt (North Queensland Cowboys).

Here is the schedule for the Pacific Cup, check it out

Final words

Jack de Belin's decision to represent Papua New Guinea is a major coup for the Kumuls. He is a seasoned NRL player with a wealth of experience at the highest level of the game. His inclusion in the squad is a significant boost for the Kumuls, both on and off the field.

De Belin's decision to play for PNG is also a sign of the growing popularity of rugby league in the Pacific region. The Pacific Cup is a major tournament, and it is attracting some of the best players in the world. De Belin's involvement will help to raise the profile of the tournament and of rugby league in PNG.