Ex-Hunter Moide to join Vipers this season

FORMER PNG Hunters prop Tommy Moide will be joining the Port Moresby Vipers in this year’s Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.
Moide said he asked for a release from the Hostplus Cup side to take time off and recover from a few injuries and attend to family commitment.
Moide told The National on Sunday that there were false rumors on social media that he had retired from playing and would not be taking part in the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.
“I want to confirm that yes I’ve joined the Vipers for this season because they offered to look after me well,” he said.
“I did not retire from rugby league. All I need is some time off. I had few injuries that I feel I won’t be able to give my best to the team (Hunters) this year.
“Based on that, I had to ask for release from the Hunters management and go through proper recovery process.
“I was not dropped due to fitness or form. I personally asked for a release.
“At the moment I feel that my body is slowly recovering and while with the Vipers, I’ll try my best to work my way in again (to the Hunters).”
The 26-year-old said he could not stay away from his wife and two kids.
“I had to leave because I could not afford to cater for my family,” he said.
“I have two kids and I have the responsibility to look after them physically. I asked to join Vipers and they accepted me with open arms. My focus is on getting myself ready and fit and hopefully make the finals this year.
“We have a good mix. But it comes back to us.”
The Hanuabada lad said he would love to retain his position in the Hunters but the decision was up to the management.
He said his focus would be on the Vipers and keeping form and fitness up to standard and help the Vipers enter finals this season.
Notable inclusions in the Vipers squad for this season; Charlie Wabo (head coach), Charlie Simon (Lae Tigers), Sylvester Bulu (Hela Wigmen), and Mesach Wallen (Hela Wigmen).