High hopes on Coates

The National Sports

By PARKER TAMBUA
KUMULS coach Michael Marum says he is confident that Brisbane Bronco Xavier Coates will declare his allegiance to Papua New Guinea for next year’s Rugby League World Cup in England.
Marum praised the PNG-born winger for his form over the past couple of National Rugby League (NRL) rounds that saw him score two tries.
“He is a great talent kid,” he said days after the Queensland State of Origin junior was declared the NRL fastest player.
“He is big, strong and has great speed.
“I’m pretty sure he will put his hand up to play for PNG in the World Cup.
“He played well in his PNG debut against Samoa last year.
“He has been really good for the Broncos in the last two games and I hope he maintains his form.
“I want him to focus his football and try to maintain his spot in the first grade.
“It’s a challenge for him and it’ll be good if me maintains his spot for the remainder of the season.”
Kumuls five-eighth Kyle Laybutt said Coates’ aerial prowess and speed would be a boost for PNG and that he couldn’t wait to play alongside the 19-year-old.
Meanwhile, Marum said Kumuls selectors would prioritise NRL players for the national side but pointed out that their availability would depend on club clearance and whether they were injury-free.

5 comments

  • I know he loves to Play for PNG Kumuls because that is the country that gave him the exposer at the international stage so he can be recognise by NRL teams which Broncos did. We are proud of him. I saw him get a run away ball to score. So amazing.

  • Anton ….. A very imposing figure like Greg English back in the days…. will only make the kumul team stronger and competitive on the world stage.

  • This kid hasn’t started playing to win yet. He is still adapting and learning how to exploit opportunities presented during a match. Once he’s settled in, he’ll definitely make a mark in rugby league.

  • this kid would be a huge boost to the PNG Kumul. His current form is amazing. His good in the air. I saw the last time when he fly high to get the ball. He is devastating and sensation. I love to Watch him play in the Gold and Red Next year 2021 world Cup in England.

  • He is definitely an amazing kid and I am pretty sure he won’t let PNG down if Michael Marum gives him a chance. Kyle Laybutt also another amazing kid with his super natural ability to kick during pressure football. I like his game with England and Fiji. Keep up the good form until next years World Cup.

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