Coach Wabo optimistic about defending Digicel Cup title

FORMER Papua New Guinea international and Hela Wigmen coach Charlie Wabo says he is optimistic about their title defence in the upcoming Digicel Cup season.
Despite losing a number of his premiership winners from last season, he said with the inclusion of a few rookies alongside their 10 existing players, the Wigmen were eager to retain the title.
“From our preparation and training, I’ve seen that the players look sharp and they are ready to defend the title,” Wabo said.
Meanwhile, chairman Andy Hetra said they were faced with the same situation as last year where only a few members from the 2019 squad stayed on for the 2020 season.
According to Hetra, out of their 25 players from last season, seven had joined the SP Hunters, three had been recruited by other franchises and five had been released.
“We believe in our systems and processes,” he said.
“As long as they (new recruits) believe in these processes and systems, and have the right attitude and discipline, they can produce the same results.”
Hetra said they were fortunate to have the core group from last year as well as senior players like Daniel Pai, Missack Wallen and Manu Kame.
“They are experienced players who have been around for a while,” he said.
“With the depth and fresh faces that we have, it’s a good mix of experience and youth for the new season.”