Graham Rex Prime for Second Season with Hunters

The Lae Snax Tigers premiership-winning utility and PNG Hunters rising talent, Graham Rex, is slowly holding down his own as he prepares to play for his second season with the Hunters in the 2026 Hostplus Cup.

Rex made his debut for the Hunters last year against the Ipswich Jets in round 6 and has been on the extended bench for much of the season, notching up 3 games. 

He played a key role as fullback in the 2025 Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup grand final, helping the Lae Snax Tigers defeat the PRK Mendi Muruks with a 36-16 scoreline to claim the coveted title.  

The Western Highlander’s career has been on an upward trajectory, where he made his debut with the Tigers in 2024, joined the Hunters in 2025, and won the premiership with the Lae-based club that same year.

Rex mentioned that he was honored to make the final cut, noting that there would be challenges, but he is prepared to step up and take his game to another level this season.

“Comparing the group, it’s not the same. Every year has new players and different challenges, but I’m happy to be part of the 2026 squad, which is one of my goals,” he said.      

He added that the preseason had been tough, describing the amount of work they put in training days to maintain their fitness level and stay injury-free.

Despite not being named in the starting lineup in round one, Rex stated that he would be patient, work hard, trust the process, and keep his fingers crossed whenever an opportunity arises.  

The PNG Hunters will host the Central Queensland Capras in Round 1 of the Hostplus Cup on Sunday, 8 March 2026, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.