Tigers close in on Kumul

By PARKER TAMBUA
WESTS Tigers are closing in on signing Papua New Guinea Kumuls winger Jimmy Ngutlik on a train-and-trial deal for the 2023 National Rugby League (NRL) season.
Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe told The National yesterday that the 22-year-old would be available for selection for coach Tim Sheen’s first grade side during the mid-season.
Ngutlik, from Bitabaur village in East New Britain, previously joined the Tigers pathway programme in 2021 and played for their Jersey Flegg Cup (Under-20) side throughout the season.
The speedster was promoted to the feeder side Western Suburbs Magpies in the New South Wales’ Ron Massey Cup and New South Wales Cup competitions early this year.
However, now with the new train-and-trial deal, Ngutlik would be available for NRL side’s selection as early as round 10 in 2023.
Pascoe said Ngutlik’s form at Rugby League World Cup was what encouraged the Tigers to promote him.
“Jimmy is close to signing a new train-and-trial contract with Wests Tigers,” Pascoe said.
“He did well at the Rugby League World Cup with the PNG Kumuls and that will surely help in his continued development as a player.
“We look forward to Jimmy’s continued progress, hard work and persistence.
“Jimmy will be a part of our extended squad through the summer and beyond and will be available for selection when the new season commences next year,” said the Tiger chief executive.
Pascoe said the club was in talks with Ngutlik last week regarding the new contract. Ngutlik made his international debut for PNG at the World Cup game against Cook Islands.
Ngutlik had his best game against Wales in the final group match where he scored a double. He also scored the Kumuls’ only try in the 6-48 loss to England in the quarterfinal.