​Lachlan Lam Leads PNG Kumuls as Captain for Cook Islands Match

​Lachlan Lam Leads PNG Kumuls as Captain

Lachlan Lam, the skilled playmaker for Leigh Leopards in England's Super League, has been named captain of the Papua New Guinea Kumuls as they prepare to face the Cook Islands. This role honors a family tradition, as Lam steps into a position once held by his father, Adrian Lam, a legendary former Kumuls captain and influential rugby figure in Papua New Guinea. Lam’s appointment is anticipated to bring motivation and focus to the team and fans alike as the Kumuls head into this crucial match.

The game is scheduled for Sunday, 3rd November, at Port Moresby’s National Football Stadium. The Kumuls aim to secure victory, with Lam’s leadership and his Super League experience being seen as key factors in their preparations. A win not only means retaining the bowl but also advances the Kumuls to a promotional game against a tier 1 nation on 10th November at CommBank Stadium in Sydney, Australia.

Lam’s presence is expected to be central to the team’s gameplay, with the lineup tailored to capitalize on each player’s strengths. The backs, including Nene MacDonald, Elijah Roltinga, Robert Mathias, Rodrick Tai, and Robert Derby, offer a blend of agility and tactical awareness essential for both defense and attack. Their roles will be crucial in keeping the Cook Islands’ defense under pressure throughout the match.

Teaming up with Kyle Laybutt in the halves, Lam will lead the Kumuls' tactical plays and ball distribution. His experience with high-stakes matches from his Super League career is expected to strengthen team strategy, allowing them to adapt on the field as the game unfolds.

The forward pack features Valentine Richard, Judah Rimbu, Jacob Alick-Wiencke, Dan Russell, Jeremiah Simbiken, and Jack de Belin, each bringing physical strength and resilience needed for scrums and tackles. Their efforts to maintain ball possession and control key areas on the field are set to be crucial in securing a victory.

On the bench, Liam Horne, Koso Bandi, Illa Alu, and Sylvester Namo stand ready to enter at pivotal moments, providing fresh energy and support as the game progresses. Their adaptability allows the coaching staff to make timely substitutions, adjusting team dynamics as required.

The full team roster for the PNG Kumuls against the Cook Islands is as follows:
Backs:

1. Nene MacDonald
2. Elijah Roltinga
3. Robert Mathias
4. Rodrick Tai
5. Robert Derby

Halves:
    6. Kyle Laybutt
    7. Captain Lachlan Lam

Forwards:
    8. Valentine Richard
    9. Judah Rimbu
   10. Jacob Alick-Wiencke
   11. Dan Russell
    12. Jeremiah Simbiken
    13. Jack de Belin

Bench:
14. Liam Horne
15. Koso Bandi
16. Illa Alu
17. Sylvester Namo

With a win, the Kumuls would advance to the promotional match at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on 10th November, providing an exciting opportunity for fans to witness the team compete on an international stage.

Also read

• Elizah Roltinga’s Rise: From Kimbe Cutters and SP Hunters to Representing PNG