NORTH Queensland Cowboys coach Todd Payten has named Papua New Guinea Kumuls prospect Zac Laybutt at No.18 for the clash against the Canterbury Bulldogs in National Rugby League (NRL) round 5 fixture on Sunday (6:15pmkick-off).
Payten will confirm his final 17 hours before kick-off at the Accor Stadium in Sydney.
Whether the younger brother of current Kumuls halfback Kyle Laybutt gets to debut on Sunday or not, being named on the extended bench is an achievement from a player who came through the Cowboys junior system over the last four years.
Laybutt and another potential Kumul in Ragariv Wawick, with current PNG internationals Robert Derby and Sylvester Namo are part of the 2023 Cowboys development squad.
Local product Namo,
Laybutt and Derby featured for Cowboys feeder side, Townsville Blackhawks in the last three rounds of the Hostplus Cup.
Laybutt’s promotion up the Cowboys pecking order is due to winger Murray Taulagi (knee) and Gehamat Shibasaki (hamstring) out for this weekend’s clash.
Peta Hiku returns from suspension to fill in at No.4 jersey and Brendon Elliot comes in on the wing.
The absence of Jeremiah Nanai (suspended) sees Heilum Luki promoted to the starting side and Mitch Dunn join the bench.
Riley Price will make his NRL debut off the bench in place of injured James Tamou (foot).
Meanwhile, Namo’s arrangement with the Cowboys would see him be available for selection after round 11.
News source www.thenational.com.pg
Leave us a comment