Laybutt handed NRL lifeline

PAPUA New Guinea playmaker Kyle Laybutt has been brought into the North Queensland Cowboys’ pre-season camp in a bid to prove that he deserves another crack at Australia’s National Rugby League competition.
On a train-and-trial deal, the 24-year-old Kumul told The National from Townsville yesterday that he was grateful for another opportunity to prove his worth to the 2015 NRL champions.
“I have not been signed yet, I am only on a train-and-trial contract for the pre-season,” said the Townsville Blackhawks, who has so far played three tests for PNG.
“At this stage, it’s a six-week contract.
“I have always been hoping for a second chance and this is a great opportunity to put my foot in the door.
“I have to work hard and earn a contract.
“I just want to continue working on my fitness over the pre-season.
“My aim is to use my time here to improve my football.”
Laybutt was part of the Cowboys first-grade squad from 2016-2018.
He earned an NRL deal after an outstanding season with the Cowboys’ Under-20 side in the National Youth Competition in 2015.
But with so many quality players in the Cowboys’ first-grade side, Laybutt only managed to play two NRL games, making his debut against the Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park in round 15 in 2017.
Without an NRL contract, he has been with the Blackhawks in the Queensland Intrust Super Cup over the last two seasons.
Laybutt said he would use the experience he gained from his previous stint with the Cowboys.
“It’s definitely an advantage to know the expectations and standards of an NRL club,” he said.
“You have to be good in every aspect like your diet, training, recovery and attitude, and having that inside knowledge does help.”
The Cowboys began pre-season training last month.