Selu warming up to playmaking responsibilities, committed to club

YOUNG halfback Zachariah Selu is learning from experienced playmakers in the PNG SP Hunters squad while committing himself to training as a fringe player in the team.
The 23-year-old is yet to make his debut in the Hostplus Cup.
With playmakers Sakias Komati, Joshua Lau, Jamie Mavoko and Judah Rimbu the first choice halves, Selu is in no rush but willing to learn at the training ground.
Selu was scouted by the Hunters straight from the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League’s (PNGRFL) National Zones Championships in 2023 where he played for NGI in the Under-20 division.
Knowing he did not play in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and jumping straight into the Hostplus Cup side, Selu appreciates being in camp.
“I am trying to learn from the experienced boys in the team,” Selu said.
“Last week, I got the opportunity to play alongside Jamie Mavoko in the halves in the trial game against Gulf Isou.
“That was great experience for me; I only watched Jamie on TV and to actually play alongside him was an awesome feeling.
“I let Jamie do the talking and he controlled the game, but I just gave him the support while he ran the show.
“I’m also learning from the experience of current halves (Komati and Lau) in training. But if there is an opportunity to debut later in the season, I’m looking forward to it.”
Selu praised former Hunters coach and current East New Britain Governor Michael Marum as an influential figure in the province, especially for local club Rabaul Panthers.
“I play for Rabaul Panthers and Michael Marum used to be our mentor. Whenever he (Marum) comes around, he speaks to us, gives us direction,” Selu said.
“Marum is someone who wants young boys to be disciplined, committed and hardworking and I was fortunate to learn a few things while I was in Rabaul.”