PNG Hunters to make historical debut in Queensland Cup this week

This weekend will be a landmark in the history of Papua New Guinea rugby league, as the country's brand new team, the Hunters, make their debut in the Queensland Cup, taking on Redcliffe Dolphins in Brisbane.

They'll be without one of their rising stars though, Wellington Albert, who has already been snapped up to play for Penrith in the NRL.

But Wellington said he believes all of his former team mates are capable of following him into the professional game.

And as he settles down to life in Sydney, he said the opportunity to turn pro was one he just couldn't turn down.