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The SP PNG Hunters officially launched their 2026 Hostplus Cup campaign on Feb 27th at the Port Moresby Nature Park.

After securing back-to-back finals appearances over the past two seasons, the Hunters are determined to maintain that momentum and build on their recent success. The squad has completed an intense 17-week pre-season program designed to prepare a competitive, high-performance team capable of meeting the physical and technical demands of the Hostplus Cup competition.

Head Coach Paul Aiton and his coaching staff have worked tirelessly to prepare a youthful squad following the departure of several experienced players at the end of last season. The new-look Hunters side blends emerging talent with a core group of senior leaders, creating an exciting dynamic heading into 2026.

This season represents a new chapter for the club. Early trial matches have already showcased glimpses of the team’s speed, skill and natural flair. With a refreshed spine and a limited number of returning veterans, anticipation is building around what this young squad can achieve.

During the launch, players spent quality time engaging with school children, participating in fun activities facilitated by the NRL League Bilong Laif program. The students enjoyed meeting their favourite Hunters players, taking photos and collecting autographs in what was a memorable experience for all involved.

Speaking front of sponsors and invited guests, Coach Paul Aiton said, “I’m really proud of the team’s growth, from when we started, we had a lot of new information to teach them. I was not at the 2nd Trial match but I am really impressed with the coaching staff who have really grown as well, even Ila our captain’s been here for 8seasons but he’s training like he’s in his 20’s. Everyone on this team has something new to bring to the team.”

Here is your 2026 Squad list:

HUNTERS 2026 SQUAD:

  1. BENJI KOT
  2. BRUCE BAWASE
  3. CARLOS LUNG
  4. CLENT LAMA
  5. DOUGLAS DAVID
  6. ELIJAH ROLTINGA
  7. GRAHAM REX
  8. HIMSON ULALOM
  9. ILA ALU
  10. JACOB LOT
  11. JAMIE MAVOKO
  12. JOEL GENA
  13. JORDAN STEVEN
  14. JOSHUA MIRE
  15. KOSO BANDI
  16. LYNCHIL KIAP
  17. MANASE KAI
  18. MILES BANAM
  19. MURRAY CONNORS
  20. NORMAN AKUNAI
  21. SAMUAL WAK
  22. SANNY WABO
  23. SEAL KALO
  24. TAPIA SOLU
  25. VANE MAMUNA
  26. WARI REX
  27. WHALLAN TAU-LOI
  28. ZEBBEDY KIP

DEVELOPMENT SQUAD:

  1. CHRIS CULLIGAN
  2. DAVID ISSAC
  3. FABIAN KARI
  4. FELIX BEKI
  5. HERCULES KONDO

For more information, please email media@pnghunters.com

ENDS//

Media

Media

Papua New Guinea's team participating in the Queensland Hostplus Cup

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2022 Hostplus Cup