Nami is skipper

BY KEITH PUARIA
IT has been six years since he first donned his country’s colours as a Pukpuk at the Wellington 7s in New Zealand, but Glen Nami’s day has come, to step up and lead his country.
The 26-year-old was named yesterday as captain of the Telikom PNG Prime Minister’s XIII by coach Adrian Lam at a formal announcement hosted by Sports and Pacific Games Minister Justin Tkatchenko.
Lam’s decision for the leadership was done with a view for the future, also naming experienced campaigner Dion Aiye as deputy for Sunday’s clash against the Australian PM’s XIII.
But Nami’s confidence lies more in the players he has available around him.
“It is a big honour. But I’m blessed with the experience of Rodney (Pora), Charlie (Wabo), Larsen (Marabe) and Dion Aiye, whom I can count on when I need it,” Nami said.
“It’s not something that I can say that I was thinking about throughout my rugby league career, but it is an honour. You come into the side every time you get picked and try to concentrate on your own game. Work on the areas where you think you can contribute in a bigger way for the team, but captaining your country is huge.”
Two years as skipper for PNGNRL champions Goroka Lahanis has been time enough for Nami, and the 96kg lock knows that he is ready.
Lam also announced his final team for Sunday with Mark Mexico moving to the bench, making way for Marabe, who will start beside David Loko in the backrow.
Team: Joshia Abavu, Mathew Puke, Richard Kambo, Jason Tali, Aiye, Israel Eliab, Pora, Wabo, Gonzella Urakusie, Loko, Marabe, Nami. Reserves: Wesley Mohokule, Mark Mexico, Enoch Maki, Wartovo Puara Jr, Esau Siune (one to be omitted). Shadows:  Roy Kela and Thompson Teteh.