Jordan Steven ready to shine in Hunters first preseason trial

The SP PNG Hunters recruit, Jordan Steven, is stoked to prove his worth when the Hunters play their first Hostplus Cup preseason trial against the Northern Pride on Sunday, 15 February 2026, at Stan Williams Park, Cairns.

Steven began his career with Tarangau, taking part in the Port Moresby Rugby League competition. He made his debut for the Wigmen in the Digicel Cup in 2020. He left the Wigmen and joined the Tigers in 2023 and was scouted by the Hunters at the end of season 2025.

After three months of intense training covering three rigorous phases, Steven’s goal of playing for PNG’s elite pathway club (Hunters) is about to be realized. 

Making it to the Hunters is every Papua New Guinean rugby league player’s aspiration, with Steven expressing: “I am happy to be in the Hunters. It’s a dream come true.” 

Drawing comparisons with the Digicel-ExxonMobil (DEM) Cup level, he described that the Hunters’ standard is fast and at an elite level.

“The Hunters’ system is very fast compared to the DEM Cup. I have learned a lot of things in the preseason, focusing on skills, techniques, and trying to better myself,” Steven said.

The booming forward has been named on the bench to make his debut in the Hunters’ first preseason trial, with the soft-spoken player thanking coach Paul Aiton for believing in him.

“The coach trusted me to make the final cut, so I will not let him down. I will give my best to repay his trust, and I look forward to the trial,” he said.

Assistant coach Enoch Maki heaped praise on Steven’s ability to learn things quickly, stating: “The good thing about Jordan is that he can learn fast. His understanding of the game and quick adaptation are impressive.”

Winning the 2025 DEM Cup with the Tigers and getting a call-up to the PNG Hunters at the back-end of the season, Jordan Steven is thankful and anticipates leaving his mark on the field this weekend.