Kumuls will be big hitters Giants star promises

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The National, Tuesday October 15th, 2013

 HUDDERSFIELD: Huddersfield Giants star Jason Chan knows Papua New Guinea will play with no fear in the World Cup.

The 29-year-old back-row forward is tipped for a leading role for the Kumuls after finishing an injury-hit Super League season with Huddersfield as one of the minor 2013 champions’ form players.

After missing 20 top-flight fixtures with two lengthy spells on the sidelines following knee and bicep injuries, Chan returned to action at the back end of the campaign feeling fit and fresh.

As a result, he will go into PNG’s opening World Cup game against France in Hull on Sunday, October 27 firing on all cylinders.

“Things are gearing up well,” said Chan, who was the Giants’ man-of-the-match in their 30-22 qualifying semi-final defeat at Warrington Wolves at the end of last month.

“I’m feeling confident and excited about the games coming up, and I know that’s how everyone else is feeling, too. 

“Everybody’s looking forward to ripping in.

“There are a lot of players on the PNG roster who go crazy in defence, and they like to put in the big hits. I know people enjoy seeing that and I think the fact we play with no fear is why we’re so popular.

“But we’re not short of ability either. 

“There’s a lot of talent in PNG, it’s the national sport, and there are a few coming up from the Queensland Cup and into the NRL. 

“It’s a good opportunity for the local boys to come over, show their talent, and perhaps pick something up with a club in the UK,” Chan said.

After facing France at Hull KR’s MS3 Craven Park, PNG take on Samoa at the same venue on November 4 and New Zealand at the Headingley Carnegie Stadium four days later. – The Huddersfield Daily Examiner