Reigning champions launch 2021 Digicel Cup campaign

By PATRICIA KEAMO
REIGING champions Hela Wigmen launched their Digicel Cup campaign on Friday as they look to look to kick off their title defence on a winning note.
Club chairman Andy Hetra said they had a gruelling preseason with more than 60 players before trimming the squad to 35 men.
“The selection of the final squad was not easy because we knew they could be picked by the SP Hunters for the next level of rugby league,” he said.
Hetra said although seven of their Hunters recruits had left a gap in the team, it was also a positive sign that the club was heading in the right direction.
“We are happy because the seven players (with the Hunters) have not disappointed with their performances,” he said.
“Samuel Yegip has done well for himself, Norman Brown has also performed well with two very good games.
“Judah Rimbu has also stepped up well and the others within the playing group will join the team.”
Meanwhile, Hetra said he was confident that their rookies from the Hela leagues had the potential to further their rugby league careers if provided the right support and environment.
“Our job now as a club is to provide that conducive environment,” he said.
“But as players they need to work hard to produce results.
“With the new crop of players and our experienced players from previous the season, we have a good mixture of players who can take us to the grand final again.”
The Wigmen kick off their season against 2018 champions Goroka Lahanis at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday.