Russell yet to settle future

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea international Daniel Russell’s time with the Cowboys appears to be up but the utility has not given up hope of re-signing with the National Rugby League (NRL) club.
New North Queensland coach Todd Payten has already filled 29 of his 30 first-grade spots for next season, though young half Jake Clifford has been linked to Newcastle.
Fellow utility John Asiata and Russell — who is yet to make his NRL debut — are the only unsigned players from the current roster, with the Tongan international the more experienced of the pair.
Russell, 24, who has so far played two tests and one Prime Minister’s 13 match for PNG, told The National yesterday that a pectoral injury had shattered his hopes of making his NRL debut this year.
“Unfortunately, the Cowboys are yet to re-sign me for 2021,” said Russell, whose father Mark was born in Port Moresby and raised in Madang.
“It’s disappointing as I would have had the opportunity to make my debut.
“Anyway, I’m still in discussions for next season but nothing has been finalised yet.
“Hopefully, I will find out in a couple of weeks.
“But on the positive side, I’ve learnt many things in my two years with the Cowboys.
“I’ve learnt a lot of stuff from some high-profile players which I’ll definitely take with me on my next journey (if I’m not re-signed).”
Meanwhile the 193cm, 96kg Longreach native said he was thrilled that the SP Hunters would be based in Queensland for next season in the Intrust Super Cup.
“It’s great to see the Hunters coming to Australia,” he said.
“If I get another NRL opportunity, I’ll definitely request to play with them as my affiliate club.
“They are a great team.”
Meanwhile, Russell — who debuted for the Souths Logan Magpies — said he was aiming to make the Kumuls squad for next year’s World Cup in England.