Champions secure Marabe in bid to defend title

 THE Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Digicel Cup reigning champions Hela Wigmen have secured the services former Kumul centre Larsen Marabe, pictured.

The former Vipers star was named by the management in their final 25-man squad, including two shadow reserves for this year’s semi-professional competition which will involve 11 teams divided into two conferences.

Marabe’s inclusion is a boost for the third year franchise, which first entered the competition in 2012 before sitting out the 2013 season — only to come back last year and claim the championship.

Marabe is somewhat of a journeyman, having had stints at the Agmark Gurias and in the United Kingdom playing in the second division.

The 2008 World Cup squad member has forged a reputation as hard-running centre/backrower and his inclusion in the Hela side sees the Tari native return to his roots for the first time.

The 29-year-old will support veteran Joseph Omai, who captained the side to their maiden premiership against the Gurias in Lae last year.

The management has retained majority of their premiership-winning team and are expected to be one of the teams to beat in the new season.

The side is coached by Andrew Andiki with the trainer former Mendi Muruks winger Sova Milfred.

Andiki has reportedly been in Port Moresby scouting talent to bolster the side during the season.

Their opening match is against the Enga Mioks in Wabag on Sunday. Wigmen: Billy Teria, Allan Anton, Maxie Kapia, Larsen Marabe, Jeremy Ludwik, Dickson Paul, Godfrey Lamex, Johnson Hawiza, Oliver Kerry, Tobby Kopi, Melvin Paul, Felix Taguwe, Remzy Paul, Weza Tenza, Ande Rami,  William Mone, Samuel Kili, Kewa Kili, Andrew Ipi, Joseph Omai (c), Watson Repo, Yaksi Kia, Raymond Tia, Jojo Bugandi, Ronnie Tenza.