Laybutt eyeing halves combo

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea international Kyle Laybutt is eyeing a strong halves combinations with Sydney Roosters playmaker Lachlan Lam if they both get selected for the Kumuls’ Pacific Test match against the Fiji Bati on June 25.
With Kumuls coach Stanley Tepend expected to announce his squad on Wednesday and England based Watson Boas not available, a Laybutt-Lam combination is on the cards. The former North Queensland Cowboy told The National on Friday that Lam’s game would suit his style particularly on offence.
“I think the way Lachlan Lam plays and how I play complements each other,” said Laybutt, who has played three tests for PNG so far.
“If we both get selected, I’ll be looking forward to getting into camp and working on the combinations with him (Lam).”
Lam made his Kumuls debut in style scoring a double at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby when the hosts thrashed USA 64-0 in a World Cup group match in 2017. The 24-year old will be looking to play his third test for PNG.
Meanwhile, Canterbury Bulldogs utility Bailey Biondi-Odo can also play in the halves as well as hooker and if selected will only shore up PNG’s hooker-halves stocks.
Laybutt said he was looking forward to play under new head coach Tepend who took over from Michael Marum this year. “Stanley has been a part of the Kumuls coaching staff for a number of years now so it’s good see him in the head coach’s role,” Laybutt said.
“Absolutely, I look forward to playing under him and representing PNG once again.
“Every time I get to wear the Kumuls jersey its an absolute honour and I hope to do it proud.”