PNG Kumuls Star Laybutt eyes Test Call-up
By PARKER TAMBUA | The National
PAPUA New Guinea Kumuls five-eighth Kyle Laybutt has not been playing in the top level competitions in 2023 but is hoping to make the tests squad for the Pacific Championships in October.
The Kumuls will host Fiji and Cook Islands in Port Moresby’s National Football Stadium and Kyle is hoping to achieve one of his dream, which is to play alongside his younger brother and North Queensland Cowboy Zac Laybutt in PNG colors.
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| PNG Kumuls Star Laybutt eyes Test Call-up [Photo by TheNational] |
Kyle was contracted to the Sunshine Coast Falcons in 2023 season but due to injuries in mid-season and personal commitment, he had to relocate back to Townsville.
The 27-year-old is currently playing for a local A grade club in the Townsville competition.
“I was injured mid-season and some things popped up back in Townsville so I made my decision to leave Sunshine Coast and return to Townsville,” said Kyle who only played a handful of games with the Falcons in 2023.
“I am playing for a local team here but will return to Townsville Blackhawks in 2024.
“As always will make myself available for Kumuls selection but I am not sure if I will be selected as I’m not playing at high level currently.
“But 100 per cent I hope I get selected.”
Kyle said his brother Zac deserved to be selected for Kumuls given his breakthrough into the Cowboys side in 2023, making three appearances for the Todd Payten-coached side.
“I really think he (Zac) deserves selection and I can’t wait to see him represent PNG on the international stage.
“It’s definitely a goal of Zac and mine to play alongside each other for our country of heritage.”
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