Kot Finds His Feet Post-Injury

Benji Kot was out of the season last year after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in round 5 against the Tweed Seagulls, where the Hunters won that match.

After ten months of rehabilitation, Kot made his first appearance for the Hunters in the season opener against the Central Queensland Capras on Sunday, 8 March, where the visitors upset the home team.

Kot made his debut for the Hunters in 2021, scoring 25 tries in 64 appearances for the SP Brewery-sponsored club.

Now back on his feet, looking fit and refreshed, the Western Highlander is on a mission to make the best of the opportunity given to him to don the Hunters’ jersey with pride.

“It’s been a tough year for me. I was out of the season last year doing rehabilitation. Last week was my first game, and it felt really good to be back with the boys,” Kot said.

“My rehabilitation has been tough. Sitting on the sideline and watching the boys play was tough for me. I felt like giving up, but then I had to look back on the journey I took, which motivated me to keep going.” 

The utility back-rower-center added that the Hunters played poorly last week, especially in the first half, and they look to redeem themselves in round 2.

“It was a tough game. We lost the game due to errors, so we are working on that and taking each day at a time to build into the weekend’s game,” he said.

He stated that with the inclusion of the fresh recruits, particularly in the backline, he had built a good combination with the rookies in the preseason, and hopes to go full steam ahead in round 2.

“We had a good pre-season. We basically worked on our skills, so I think the boys are ready for the game on the weekend,” Kot said.

Playing his sixth season for the Hunters, Kot remains open-minded to learn more and provide leadership to the team, specifically the rookies.  

“I’ve been with the club for a while, so I have to set a good example for the young players in the team. Personally, I’m looking forward to the match in round 2,” he said. 

The PNG Hunters will host the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in Round 2 of the Hostplus Cup on Sunday, 15 March 2026, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.