Wests Tigers have fallen to a 32-28 defeat to the Cowboys in Townsville. In a match where they trailed 32-6, an epic fightback fell just short, despite some outstanding individual performances from the likes of Starford To’a and Jahream Bula After Jarome Luai was sin-binned for repeated infringements early on, tries to John Bateman and Jaxon Purdue meant things looked ominous for the Tigers. However, a great team move where Wests Tigers shifted the ball to either end of the field culminated in Starford To’a breaking numerous tackles to score. Another sinbin though, this time to Adam Doueihi for taking out a Cowboys chaser, led to Drinkwater racing through off a scrum right before half-time. The score read 18-6 at the break, and with Doueihi still in the bin, Jeremiah Nanai grabbed a try in the first set of the second period to extend the home side’s lead. Jaxson Paulo was next to score, before a long-range effort from the Cowboys was finished off by Tom Dearden. From there though, Wests Tigers nearly pulled off the equal-greatest comeback in Australian rugby league history. To’a’s strength and power was on show again for his second try, and just two minutes later, Heath Mason stepped his way through for his first four-pointer at NRL level this season. When Jahream Bula set Charlie Staines up in the corner, Wests Tigers were right back in the match, and Jahream Bula sliced through with five to go to bring them within two points. However, despite their best efforts, the Tigers just couldn’t find that last try to level or win the match, with North Queensland ultimately emerging victorious, 32-28. Cowboys 32 (Bateman, Purdue, Drinkwater, Nanai, Paulo, Dearden tries; Drinkwater 4/7 goals) defeated Wests Tigers 28 (To'a 2, Mason, Staines, Bula tries; Doueihi 4/5 goals) at Queensland Country Bank Stadium. Source: www.weststigers.com.au

Papua New Guinea’s cultural craftsmanship made a powerful statement at Fiji Fashion Week 2025, where Florence Jaukea Kamel, widely known as the Bilum Meri, unveiled a contemporary collection centered on the traditional bilum. Her work, rooted in heritage yet boldly modern, received regional acclaim and reaffirmed the global potential of indigenous design. Kamel’s participation in the event was supported by Air Niugini, underscoring the airline’s continued investment in showcasing Papua New Guinean culture internationally. The moment also marked a milestone for PNG Fashion Week, an organization committed to elevating the profiles of local designers and artisans on regional and global stages. “Bilum is more than a bag,” Kamel said in a post-show interview. “It is a living expression of our stories, our womanhood, our strength. Taking it to Fiji was about showing that our heritage has a place in the global fashion dialogue.” Wearing one of Kamel’s signature pieces on the Suva runway was Incennea Minz, Brand Ambassador for PNG Fashion Week. Her striking presence and emotional walk captivated the audience, presenting the bilum not just as a garment, but as a vessel of cultural pride and identity. “It was more than just modelling,” said Minz. “I felt like I was carrying the spirit of our mothers, sisters, and daughters who weaves her story into each thread.” Traditionally handcrafted, bilums are deeply embedded in Papua New Guinea’s social and cultural fabric. Kamel’s designs innovatively reinterpreted this tradition, transforming the bilum into structured garments that fused heritage with high fashion. Her collection received widespread attention from designers, journalists, and fashion enthusiasts across the Pacific. PNG Fashion Week Managing Director Philma Kelegai praised the showcase, calling it a proud representation of Papua New Guinea’s artistic voice. “This moment reflects what we’ve always known that Papua New Guinea has a unique voice, one that resonates beyond our borders,” Kelegai said. “We are incredibly proud of Florence and Incennea for carrying that message with such authenticity and pride.” The success of Kamel’s presentation in Suva stands as a testament to the strength of PNG’s creative sector. It also highlights the importance of ongoing support for cultural industries, which play a critical role in preserving tradition while fostering innovation. As PNG fashion gains momentum, events like Fiji Fashion Week provide valuable opportunities to amplify local talent and strengthen regional cultural ties. Kamel’s showcase, rooted in authenticity and driven by vision, marks not just a personal achievement but a collective step forward for Papua New Guinea on the world stage.

The Cowboys are reportedly interested in recruiting Broncos hooker Cory Paix as the Red Hill club continue to struggle with their salary cap headache. Brisbane reportedly have 14 players worth a collective $4 million coming off contract, with club powerbrokers busily trying to piece together the puzzle. Their cap pressures were also furthered after veteran playmaker Adam Reynolds declared he would continue playing in 2026, with many expecting him to retire this season. Reynolds, Kotoni Staggs, Selwyn Cobbo, Blake Mozer, Corey Jensen, Kobe Hetherington and Fletcher Baker are without contracts for 2026 and Paix could be one player to depart. That is according to Code Sports, who are reporting North Queensland bosses have highlighted Paix as a potential replacement for the outgoing Reece Robson. The 25-year-old has started and been used on the bench under Michael Maguire this season, making it clear he has a desire to remain at the Broncos. “It (Broncos) means the world. I have got my family close by and obviously the Broncos have spent a lot of time on me developing me into the person and player I am,” he said. “I did a lot of milestones here in my personal life. Brissie is home to me. “I would love to be a Bronco for life but sometimes in life you don’t always get what you want.” Bulldogs gun Reed Mahoney is reportedly another target of the Cowboys, with Paix’s reportedly meeting with Brisbane bosses during the week. “Cory would like to stay at the Broncos but it depends on what happens,” Paix’s manager Paul Hogan said. “The Broncos are keen to keep him. We’ll see what transpires over the next few weeks, but Cory is focused on playing good football and if he does that, his future will sort itself out. “He has fought back really well and is enjoying being coached by Madge.” Source: www.foxsports.com.au

The United States Embassy in Port Moresby city, in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League (PNG NRL), has launched a week-long sports diplomacy initiative to foster youth development through rugby union clinics across schools in the National Capital District (NCD). As part of the program, the U.S. Embassy brought two Olympic-level rugby athletes—Cheta Emba and Andrew Durutalo for a series of workshops, school visits, and on-field clinics from May 24th to 30th. The visit is part of the U.S. State Department's Sports Envoy Program, aimed at using sports as a bridge for cultural exchange, skill-building, and youth empowerment. Speaking during a clinic at Bomana Primary School, Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Matthew Bunt praised the collaboration with PNG NRL and the enthusiastic response from the students. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to engage with Papua New Guinean youth and the wider sporting community, and to really highlight the values we share between our two countries,” said Bunt. “Cheta and Andrew have been working hands-on with students, sharing skills and experiences that has been inspiring to watch.” The event is also a symbolic gesture ahead of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between the United States and Papua New Guinea and marks a continuation of efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties through public diplomacy initiatives. Sarah Sanderson, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy, shared deeper insights into the goals and spirit of the program. “Sports is a language we all share,” said Sanderson. “It’s a lot of fun, but it’s also a way to promote leadership, confidence, and development—beyond just physical skills. Our hope is that it brings our two countries closer and encourages Papua New Guinean youth to engage in sport in the spirit of cooperation.” Sanderson, who serves full-time in the embassy’s Public Diplomacy section, emphasized that the initiative is more than just rugby, but it is about building character and international connections. The two athletes, Cheta and Andrew, spent the week working with local coaches and players, learning about the unique style of rugby in PNG while also mentoring students and sharing their personal journeys. Cheta Emba resonated with many students as a role model, especially for young girls aspiring to compete at elite levels. “It’s been amazing to watch the connections formed between our athletes and the youth here,” Sanderson added. “Seeing how inspired they are, well especially by Cheta’s story as a female Olympian—is something truly powerful.” The outreach program also celebrates Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence, creating a dual milestone year that highlights the significance of the initiative. When asked if this program would continue annually, Sanderson explained that the Sports Envoy Program is application-based, with countries selected each year. “Two years ago, we hosted surfing envoys. This year it’s rugby. We’ll apply again next year and who knows, maybe we can bring American football next time,” she said with a laugh. With high-energy clinics, impactful stories, and cultural exchange, the week-long event has left lasting impressions on both the visitors and the communities they are engaged with. As PNG continues to build its sporting potential, partnerships like these provide meaningful platforms for learning, connection, and growth.

Over 840 Western Province students graduated from the Kokoda Track Foundation Flexible Open Distance Education (KTF FODE) making it the largest graduating cohorts in the Fly River area. This was through the landmark partnership of SDP and KTF working alongside the Western Province Division of Education to extend education pathways to some of the province’s most remote communities, offering students a second chance at education like Marilyn Duwaba. Marilyn, a busy single mother of three boys and a local primary school teacher in Kiunga, recently celebrated her graduation, successfully upgrading her Grade 12 results through FODE. When she first completed Grade 12 over 25 years ago, Marilyn received a GPA well below her goal. Determined to meet the new minimum government requirements for schoolteachers, Marilyn grasped the opportunity to upgrade via a program that offered the flexibility she needed as a committed teacher. Her determination paid off. In 2024, Marilyn not only improved her GPA, but she was honored as Dux of her class. In response to her achievement, Marilyn said, ‘I was so excited that my effort had paid off. I feel that with this kind of opportunity in the community, we don't have to stay at the same level; we can continue to advance ourselves and provide good opportunities for our families and contribute to our communities as well.’ Marilyn wants to share her story to encourage people who are thinking about giving education another go but are hesitant about their ability to learn. She hopes that her story will show that if you persevere, you will eventually succeed. She shared these words of encouragement, “You don't stop because it does not turn out right the first time. If you want to achieve something, then you keep going. Education does not end with a certain grade; we can keep upgrading ourselves so we can provide a better community for ourselves and our families.’ A testament to the lasting partnerships that drive this initiative, the graduation celebrations across Western Province were attended by representatives from local government, SDP and KTF, including Western Provincial Education Advisor, Mr. Charlie Buia, SDP Director of Education, Dr Brad Shaw, KTF CEO, Dr Genevieve Nelson and KTF Head of Education, Ms. Martha Bentley. Through the vision of SDP's Gutpela Community Strategy 2025-2030, and the cultivation of strong, long-term partnerships between SDP, KTF, FODE and the Western Provincial Division of Education, thousands of students are grasping an educational lifeline through second-chance FODE pathways. Together, the partnership is creating a pipeline of empowered students equipped to pursue employment or education opportunities, building a brighter future for Western Province.

United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, has called for stronger cross-sectoral collaboration and investment in child protection services during her official visit the country on 25th Sunday of May at Port Moresby's City Hall. Speaking at a high-level meeting hosted by National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop and key partners, Dr. Najat stressed the urgent need to translate national policies and strategies into tangible services accessible to all children and their caregivers. “You know, we can have wonderful policies and strategies, but what truly matters is how we translate these into concrete services that reach children where they are most needed,” Dr. Najat said during the meet. She then commended Governor Parkop for his active leadership and commitment as a child rights advocate and for supporting the proposed Parliamentary Committee on Child and Youth Well-being. “This is not an inspection or an investigation,” she clarified. “My role is to advocate and to explore how we can work more closely with the UN team and all key stakeholders, including at the community level.” Papua New Guinea is among 45 countries participating in the Global Pathfinding Alliance to End Violence Against Children, a growing international coalition committed to preventing and eradicating all forms of violence against children by 2030. However, Dr. Najat warned that globally, progress remains off track. “Despite multiple commitments, the world is not on pace to meet the promise made in Agenda 2030,” she said. “We need to reassess and ask why we are failing, and what value this alliance can bring.” She noted that violence against children is a complex, cross-sectoral issue, driven by factors such as poverty, gender inequality, harmful social norms, climate change, and increasing online risks. The consequences, she said, are severe—affecting children's health, education, and future productivity. Dr. Najat cited studies from Fiji and the Solomon Islands, estimating that the economic cost of violence against children can reach up to 11% of national GDP. In contrast, the cost of implementing a cross-sectoral national action plan is as little as 0.12% of a country’s budget. “We must see child protection not as a cost, but as an investment in our human capital,” she urged. “It is essential to align national and municipal budgets with these priorities.” The Special Representative also highlighted gaps in child-sensitive social protection, with only 12% of children in developing countries benefiting from assistance programs. She emphasized the importance of integrating such programs with child protection mechanisms to ensure their effectiveness. Dr. Najat praised ongoing local efforts to streamline services under a “one-stop” model and encouraged the definition of roles, responsibilities, and budget tracking among service providers. She also called for stronger community engagement, recognizing the importance of customary law and local leadership in PNG’s governance structure. Key areas identified for integrated services include birth registration; early childhood education, healthcare, justice, social welfare, and police support—delivered cohesively throughout a child’s life cycle. Dr. Najat concluded by offering her support to Papua New Guinea’s national and local authorities, civil society, and development partners in advancing this critical agenda for children.

Acclaimed Papua New Guinean designer and cultural advocate Florence Jaukae Kamel, widely known as the Bilum Meri, has been announced as the headline designer for PNG Fashion Week 2025 and will also represent Papua New Guinea at Fiji Fashion Week, stepping in for fellow designer William Maba Bray under the PNG Fashion Week banner. A passionate voice for cultural preservation and women’s empowerment, Florence has consistently elevated traditional bilum weaving in the contemporary fashion world. Her feature runway show in Port Moresby will unveil a new couture collection that combines ancestral techniques with modern design and is expected to be one of the major highlights of the event. The collection will showcase bilum craftsmanship with innovative silhouettes and natural fibers. Each piece will tell a story, celebrating the generational knowledge of women across Papua New Guinea. From her beginnings in Goroka to international exhibitions in Brisbane, Auckland, and Sydney, Florence has championed bilum not just as art, but as identity. “Bilum is more than fashion—it’s identity, it’s womanhood, and it’s power,” Florence said. “To headline PNG Fashion Week and represent PNG in Fiji is a great honor I carry for all our women.” In addition to its cultural significance, Florence’s headlining show will also serve as a fundraiser for the PNG Fashion Designers Association (PNG FDA). This newly formed body aims to support local designers through industry standards, collaboration, and professional development. “This is not just a runway show—it’s a movement,” said Philma Kelegai, Managing Director of PNG Fashion Week. “Florence’s leadership and creativity will help build the foundation of PNG’s fashion future.” As part of a regional fashion exchange promoting Pacific designers internationally, Florence will travel to Suva to showcase her collection at Fiji Fashion Week 2025. She steps in for William Maba Bray, who is unable to attend due to personal commitments. While Bray won’t be travelling, PNG Fashion Week confirmed that he will debut a new collection later this year at the Bilum Festival in Goroka. “Florence is a natural choice,” said Kelegai. “She represents craftsmanship, culture, and purpose. We are proud to have her represent PNG.” Florence is also the founder of Jaukae Bilum Products, a social enterprise that works with women artisans across Goroka, Lae, Madang, Mount Hagen, and Chimbu. Through her work, she promotes economic independence—particularly for single mothers and women in rural areas. “I started weaving to support my children,” Florence said. “Now I do it to uplift others. Bilum is no longer just for survival—it’s a symbol of transformation and dignity.” Her headline show at PNG Fashion Week is scheduled for Friday, 19th September 2025 at APEC Haus. It is expected to be a signature event in the country’s fashion calendar, celebrating Kastomi, creativity, and community. Proceeds will support infrastructure, mentorship, and advocacy initiatives under the PNG Fashion Designers Association.

With 205 NRL games to his name, Canterbury lock Kurt Mann knows what it takes to win on the football field. Since moving to the Bulldogs in 2024, his game has gone from strength-to-strength and his grit and determination has seen him picked as 18th man for Billy Slater’s Queensland Maroons. The country kid from Winton – “a town where footy is religion” - was first called into a Maroons camp during the COVID bubble for Game III of 2021 by Paul Green, and he has been itching to be back since. [caption id="attachment_65948" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Kurt Mann in the line up during the 2021 State of Origin series. ©Scott Davis / NRL Images[/caption] Hopeful of being in the frame and spurred on by his older brother Joel who had full faith he would be picked, Mann – comfortable and confident in filling a utility role – was stoked to get the call from Slater. “I’d heard a bit of chatter from other people that I could have been (in the mix). Usually, where there's smoke, there's fire, I guess, so knew I was getting spoken about it ... that I must’ve been in the mix there somewhere,” Mann said. “Billy just called me and let me know I was in … said it was a bit of good news and bad news, that I was going to be in the squad, but I’d be 18th player. “I definitely don't think it's bad news to be in the conversation and part of this squad. Stoked, couldn't believe it. “It’s always an honour to be able to be in a Maroons camp and be around the boys, helping them prepare and also preparing for a game yourself. “Being able to put on the Maroons jersey at the end of the week is something pretty special.” [caption id="attachment_65949" align="aligncenter" width="1224"] The Milestone Mann[/caption] The first person he called was his brother Joel. “He’d been asking me all week… ‘Do you know yet? Do you know yet?’… he’s been into me all week, so I had to call him first and let him know,” Mann said. “He's happy. He's stoked for me. The first thing he said to me was he was booking his flight. He said ‘right, I’m booking my flight now’ and then pretty much hung up on me.”The rest of the family, and everyone in Winton, is equally as proud. “Oh, very proud,” Mann said of everyone close to him. “Especially being a boy from the bush in Queensland, Winton, not many people sort of kick on and move into the NRL from there, so everyone in town is very proud and I'm sure they'll be tuned in to watch the game.” The 32-year-old, who has also played for Melbourne Storm, St George Illawarra Dragons and Newcastle Knights during his career, said his goal now was to prepare the best he could for the big task of taking on New South Wales at Suncorp Stadium. “We want to be as prepared as we can be for that game,” Mann said. “I'll do what I need to do, prepare myself and prepare the boys as well. “A couple of fresh faces, and there's a couple of boys that have played a lot of footy together as well, which is never a bad thing; it's always good to have players who understand each other's game and the systems and what they have to do here with the Maroons. “Really looking forward to the week and just preparing for this game.” Mann said if he did get the opportunity to run out it would simply be a dream come true. “It'd be unreal,” he said. “It’s a childhood dream of mine. I'm still chasing it and I'll continue to chase it. “I'm in the squad at the moment and I'm playing my part here now and doing what I can to help the boys and prepare myself.” When he’s not chasing his dream of donning maroon, Mann is kept very busy by the two little loves of his life. “Two kids… my son's just started school this year, he’s six, and my daughter, she's three and a half, so they keep me very, very busy off the field, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Mann said. “Most of my days off I spend with them and my partner Zara. I don't think the kids will come (to this game); probably a little bit too late for them and they'll be bouncing off the walls that time of the night, so they’ll likely watch it from home. Source: NRL.com

The race to the finals is intensifying as the 2025 Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POMCVC) enters Round 10 this weekend, with corporate pride and playoff dreams on the line. What began as a friendly battle between Port Moresby’s workplaces has evolved into a competitive showcase of athleticism, strategy, and unity. With just a few rounds remaining before the finals, every match now carries critical weight, particularly those teetering on the edge of the Top 8 in their respective divisions. In the Premier Men’s Division, a clash of the titans headlines the weekend as undefeated Westpac meets reigning four-time champions NCDC in a high-stakes encounter. Sitting first and second on the ladder respectively, both teams are widely seen as finals contenders, and this fixture could be a preview of the grand final. Westpac’s calm and calculated approach has made them the team to beat, while NCDC is determined to bounce back after a near-upset last week. Another premier thriller sees third-placed NWTL1, known for their upset victory over NCDC earlier in the season, take on fourth-placed CPL1. With both teams showcasing momentum and firepower, this match is set to be a battle of nerves and execution. Meanwhile, in Men’s Division 1, the climb to the top intensifies as CPL2 (4th) faces Digicel (6th) in what promises to be a clash of raw power and relentless hustle. Both sides are eyeing a crucial win that could define their path to the playoffs. Over in Women’s Division 1, the ranking rivalries are heating up. Top-of-the-ladder Westpac will be tested by third-ranked Dataco, who are building momentum at just the right time. With the finals looming, Dataco will be eager to break Westpac’s unbeaten run. Also on the radar is a mid-table battle between NWTL1 and BPNG1, they are two teams pushing to break into the top four and shake up the rankings. In Men’s Division 3, a major shakeup could be on the cards. Elegant (1st) aims to protect their lead against Air Niugini (4th), who previously held the top spot but slipped due to a bye. At the same time, DMPGM (3rd) will face off against a resilient NDB (6th) in a tightly matched contest that could shift the ladder and Middle-tier rivals Stanley Hotel and DICT are also locked in a momentum battle, while PNGAIC and NSL who currently 8th and 9th they are to fight for survival in what can only be described as a ladder war. The midtable crunch in Women’s Division 3 sees Deloitte (3rd) take on KPMG (5th) in a tactical showdown, as both teams fight to strengthen their playoff positioning. FODE (6th) and DICT (7th) will also face off in a fixture that could make or break their finals chances. In the Mixed Division, balance, power, and tactics will take center stage with the Ladder leaders DMPGM facing fifth-placed PM in a matchup that will test their depth and composure. Second-placed Elegant goes head-to-head with CPL (4th) in what’s expected to be a fast-paced, technical battle meanwhile, Sunev Teews (6th) and NSL (8th) will square off with both teams eager to secure a stronger foothold before the season winds down. With finals fever building, every serve, spike, and save count for Round 10 is more than just another weekend of volleyball, it is a turning point. As the competition tightens, teams are not just playing for points, but they’re playing for pride, redemption, and a shot at championship glory. Catch all the action live at TAIC, where teamwork, passion, and corporate spirit will once again electrify the courts.

In response to the tragic ethnic clash between members of the Engan and Goilala communities at North Waigani Market on Sunday night, National Capital District Governor Hon. Powes Parkop has extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and reiterated his strong call for the installation of CCTV surveillance across the city and the urgent passing of the Vagrancy Act. "This was a completely unnecessary loss of life. I express my heartfelt condolences to all affected families. What occurred was not only avoidable but also a wake-up call for urgent action," Governor Parkop said. The incident, which began when criminals attempted to rob a security guard near the informal market area, escalated into an ethnic retaliation that led to the burning of the market and loss of lives. Governor Parkop clarified that the market itself did not cause the incident and was, in fact, a victim of the violence. “Criminals tried to steal from a security guard. When he had no money to give, he was stabbed, hit by a vehicle while trying to escape, and died. In retaliation, his relatives attacked vendors based on ethnic origin and the market was burnt. This chain of events highlights the importance of surveillance and stronger laws.” Governor Parkop emphasized that if the Vagrancy Act had been in place and CCTV installed, law enforcement could have identified those responsible and acted swiftly. “The incident at Waigani informal markets justified the passing of the Vagrancy Act and the installation of CCTV around the city. Had the Act been in place, the perpetrators of the initial crime and the retaliatory actions would all be identified and declared vagrants, serving time before being repatriated to their tribal homes.” The Governor also noted that while CCTV rollout is currently underway, the Waigani Market where the killings and arson occurred—will now be prioritized for installation. While he acknowledged the significant damage caused, Governor Parkop confirmed that the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) will not be providing compensation. “Someone should compensate the market and the vendors. NCDC won’t compensate anyone.” He concluded by calling on Parliament to pass the Vagrancy Act when it sits next week. “This legislation is essential for restoring law, order, and safety in our city.”

In a proud show of corporate support for sports development, Moni Plus has officially signed on as the Silver Sponsor of Team PNG Volleyball for the 2025 Palau Mini Pacific Games, with a K20,000 contribution. The sponsorship was formally handed over during a press conference held at the 3 Mile Aquatic Centre in Port Moresby, where Mr. Tau Kilamanu, ICT Manager of Heduru Moni Plus, represented the company. Mr. Kilamanu highlighted Moni Plus’s long-standing commitment to supporting youth and sports across the nation. “Moni Plus believes in the power of sport to inspire and unite our communities,” he said. “We’ve sponsored a variety of sporting codes, and we’re proud to stand with PNG Volleyball as they prepare for the Mini Pacific Games.” Receiving the cheque was PNG Volleyball Federation President, Mr. Edward Aisi, who expressed deep appreciation for the timely sponsorship. “We are truly grateful to Moni Plus for stepping in as our Silver Sponsor at such a crucial time,” Mr. Aisi said. “Sponsorships like this are not easy to secure, especially in today’s economic climate, and their support has already made an impact—funding 56 complete uniforms for our national team heading to Palau. This partnership is more than just financial assistance; it’s a vote of confidence in our athletes and the future of volleyball in PNG.” With this new partnership, PNG Volleyball hopes to not only perform at their best in Palau but also grow the sport and attract future support as they look toward the 2027 Pacific Games.

Delivered a wake-up call by Cowboys coach Todd Payten following a poor performance in Round 1, Jeremiah Nanai worked hard to turn his form around and will next week line up for his ninth game for the Maroons. The second rower return to the NRL in Round 3 after a spending a week with the Northern Pride in the Hostplus Cup and came off the bench, before earning his starting place back in Round 8, where he scored two tries as the Cowboys posted. Queensland coach Billy Slater noticed his effort and has entrusted him to start against an impressive looking Blues forward pack featuring Angus Crichton and Liam Martin in the back row. “What happened earlier in the year happened and I took it on the chin and I moved forward from it and worked my way back into the team and I did what I had to do for the team and what's best for the team,” Nanai said. “Fortunately, Billy's been watching and I'm very grateful to be back in this team again. “I always want to play for Queensland and you have got to earn it, like Billy has said. “I have worked very hard and worked my way back to the team. “Billy told me last year I had to work on a few things defensively and I took it on board and tried to put that in my game, and hopefully I keep progressing and improve for a bit more.” With Pat Carrigan named at lock, Nanai’s partner in the second row will be his Cowboys co-captain Reuben Cotter, who has also had a less than ideal lead in to the match. Suspended for the past two matches for a careless high tackle, next Wednesday’s Origin match at Suncorp Stadium will be his first game back since Round 9. “Obviously not ideal (preparation), but I just got on with it,” Cotter said. “I couldn’t do much about the suspension, but I’ve been training quite hard over the last couple of weeks and I’ve had top ups on the weekends when the boys have played. “I’m feeling confident, I’m feeling fresh and ready to go.” [caption id="attachment_65830" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Reuben Cotter at Queensland training on the Sunshine Coast.[/caption] With Pat Carrigan named at lock, Nanai’s partner in the second row will be his Cowboys co-captain Reuben Cotter, who has also had a less than ideal lead in to the match. Suspended for the past two matches for a careless high tackle, next Wednesday’s Origin match at Suncorp Stadium will be his first game back since Round 9. “Obviously not ideal (preparation), but I just got on with it,” Cotter said. “I couldn’t do much about the suspension, but I’ve been training quite hard over the last couple of weeks and I’ve had top ups on the weekends when the boys have played. “I’m feeling confident, I’m feeling fresh and ready to go.” Cotter, who has historically been named prop, but has filled in with aplomb on the edge before, said he was excited for the challenge, with the message from Slater simply being to play his own game. “Excited for the opportunity, very grateful for the opportunity,” Cotter said. “I don’t mind where I play to be honest. Just very grateful to be able to wear the jersey. “That’s what he always says… ‘bring your game, bring your best game, and focus on doing your job to the best of your ability’, so it’ll be the same sort of prep (for me). “I’m excited about this squad, a few boys will hopefully get their debuts. “Looking forward to seeing Trent [Loiero] get a start. “He’s been with us at the back end of last year in a couple of camps so excited for him and good to have big Tino [Fa'asuamaleaui] back as well. Ready to go.” Source: nrl.com