Laybutt aims to emulate Kumuls brother

By PARKER TAMBUA
NORTH Queensland Cowboys youngster Zac Laybutt says he is keen to follow in the footsteps of his brother, Kyle, in a bid to play for the Papua New Guinea Kumuls.
Townsville Blackhawks playmaker Kyle is a Papua New Guinea international with his most recent involvement being in the Kumuls’ historic 28-10 win over the Great Britain Lions in 2019.
The 19-year-old centre, however, told The National on Friday that his short-term goal was to secure spot in the Cowboys’ feeder side, Blackhawks, for the upcoming Hostplus Cup season.
“Obviously, seeing my older brother Kyle play for the Kumuls has hugely inspired me to one day hopefully represent the people of PNG,” Zac said.
“To play for PNG and seeing the passion that they have for rugby league excites me.
“I’m hoping to achieve that soon.”

The Western Suburbs Panthers junior, from Bundaberg, was in the Melbourne Storm system when he played for Sunshine Coast Falcons in the junior divisions between the ages of 17 and 18.
Zac was recently offered a development contract with the Cowboys.
“Straight after my stint with the Storm, the Cowboys offered me contract to be part of their Young Guns squad.
“They are basically the Under-20 Cowboys squad.
“I get to train with the National Rugby League side every now and then when they need me.
“My goal for this season is to play consistent rugby league in the centres for the Cowboys’ feeder team. Hopefully, I perform well in the Blackhawks U21 side and get a call-up to play for their Hostplus Cup team alongside Kyle.”
Fellow Papua New Guinean Ragarive Warvik is also part of the Young Guns squad.
Meanwhile, apart from Kyle, Townsville’s Hostplus Cup side boast Kumuls pair Moses Meninga and Edene Gebbie for the new season.