PNG name strong squad for GB test

Papua New Guinea have named a strong squad for their Oceania Cup Pacific Test clash with Fiji and their test match with Great Britain.

The big inclusion comes in the shape of South Sydney Rabbitohs star Alex Johnston, ending months of speculation that he was considering making himself eligible for the squad.

Fellow NRL players Justin Olam (Melbourne), Daniel Russell (North Queensland) and new Rabbitohs signing Edene Gebbie are also included.

Leeds Rhinos pair Rhyse Martin and Wellington Albert, and Catalans outside back David Mead headline the Europe-based contingent, with Doncaster’s Watson Boas and Barrow pair Stargroth Amean and Wartovo Puara all receiving call-ups.

PNG Kumuls 20-man squad: Alex Johnston (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Daniel Russell (North Queensland Cowboys), David Mead (Catalan Dragons), Edene Gebbie (Wynnum Manly), Edwin Ipape (Wynnum Manly), Enock Maki (PNG Hunters), Garry Lo (PNG Hunters), Justin Olam (Melbourne Storm), Kyle Laybutt (Townsville Blackhawks), Luke Page (Burleigh Bears), Moses Meninga (PNG Hunters), Nixon Putt (Norths Devils), Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos), Stanford Talita (Hela Wigmen), Stanton Albert (PNG Hunters), Stargroth Amean (Barrow Raiders), Terry Wapi (PNG Hunters), Wartovo Puara (Barrow Raiders), Watson Boas (Doncaster RLFC), Wellington Albert (Leeds Rhinos).