Maki, Albert poised

By PARKER TAMBUA
FORMER SP Hunters Stanton Albert and Enock Maki will still be considered for the Kumuls’ 2022 Rugby League World Cup squad if they are consistent in the Digicel Cup, says an official.
Kumuls coach Michael Marum told The National that there were good young forwards who were coming through the Hunters system.
However, he said he would not write off the experienced pair who boast 17 Tests between them.
“Both players are experienced at the Kumuls level, so they still have a chance to maintain their spot in the side for the World Cup, depending on their form,” Marum said.
“If they can join a franchise in the Digicel Cup and be consistent throughout the 2022 season then they are most likely to be considered.
“It’s up to them to start training hard and set their goals for next year.
“Looking at the current Hunters squad, there are some good young forwards there and they will be putting up a strong challenge for spots.
“That means both players (Maki and Albert) need to be at their best in the Digicel Cup to be considered.”
Marum said Kumuls had a classy backline in the likes of Xavier Coates, Alex Johnston, Justin Olam and David Mead, among others.
However, he said his side would need size in the forwards.
“The retirement of veteran Luke Page is a big loss,” the Kumuls coach said.
“We need more size and obviously the two players (Albert and Maki) have that.
“But form and injuries are some of the factors that may affect selection. The Kumuls seem to be going into a transition with young players coming up, so we will see how every player performs next season in their respective competitions and then we can be sure of the squad that we’ll be selecting.”