Hunters Gearing Up for Season Opener

Excitement is building as the PNG Hunters anticipate hosting the Central Queensland Capras in Round 1 of the 2026 Hostplus Cup on Sunday, 8 March, at Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby.

The Hunters recruited many new talents in the off-season, as well as welcoming the old faces, blending a mix of youth and experienced players to stake their claim for the elusive trophy this season.

Under Paul Aiton’s mentorship, the Hunters ended their finals drought in 2024 after seven years, falling short in the preliminary final. They also reached the quarterfinals last season but bowed out. 

Preparing to start the 2026 season on a clean slate, the Paul Aiton-coached team’s goal hasn’t wavered - that is to make the top 8 and go all the way to the big dance.

Coach Aiton mentioned that when the final squad was announced, the players were excited, especially praising the debutants.  

“It was a tough choice, but we’ve settled on the 18 players and are looking forward to the game on Sunday,” he said. 

“We are all excited. When I announced the squad, there was genuine happiness and celebration among the players, especially the debutants.  

“I’m really happy for the new boys and the old boys as well. They’ve had a great preseason, and we look forward to the challenge.” 

Despite losing half of the playing group to overseas stints at the end of last season, Aiton is confident that the experienced campaigners will guide the young players to step up to the plate. 

“We need our senior players like Jamie Mavoko and Ila Alu to show leadership for the new players to follow on and off the field,” Aiton said. 

“The young boys are looking up to the old boys and following their lead, so it’s encouraging. I’m excited for the boys.

“They will have to build confidence with each other, and you can only do that when you play games with them. 

“I think we will have a great start in the opening round, and as the season goes on, the style and individual brilliance will start to unfold.” 

While the bulk of last year’s players retained their spots, Himson Ulalom, Myles Banam, and Joel Gena will make their debut. 

The following is the confirmed lineup for Round 1 against the visiting Central Queensland Capras on Sunday:

1. Sanny Wabo

2. Douglas David

3. Benji Kot

4. Clent Lama

5. Myles Banam

6. Joel Gena

7. Jamie Mavoko

8. Zebedy Kip

9. Tapia Solu

10. Himson Ulalom

11. Murray Fige Connors

12. Whallan Tau-Loi

13. Ila Alu (C)

14. Lynchill Kiap

15. Seal Kalo

16. Manisa Kai

17. Jacob Lot

18. Jordan Steven