Karmichael Hunt is gearing up for his first match in charge of the Cook Islands after taking over from Tony Iro as head coach.
Hunt, who claimed the Queensland Cup Coach of the Year award for his work with Souths Logan, has named his 21-man squad and side which will face Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby this weekend.
Karmichael Hunt names 21-man Cook Islands squad
Brad Takairangi will skipper the side against the Kumuls and will take his spot at five-eighth alongside Tevin Arona in a side which Hunt described as a good blend of youth and experience.
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"There were a few players we would have liked to have picked but weren’t available, so alongside those experienced guys there are a group from that level below the NRL," Hunt told NRL.com
Alongside Takairangi is fellow former Kiwi international Zane Tetevano, while Esan Marsters will line up in the backline with his brother, Steven.
Two young guns in Davvy Moale and Kayal Iro have also been named in the starting side to take on the Kumuls.
"We’re looking forward to it," Hunt declared. "Papua New Guinea first up over there will be a huge challenge."
Meanwhile, Hunt opened up on the pride he felt when he was approached by Tony Iro personally and asked to take the reins of the national side.
"This is a very special chance to represent half of my heritage," Hunt said.
"I don’t think it’s very well known that I’m a Cook Islander at all. People know that I am of New Zealand descent and pledged allegiance to Australia, but this is about being able to reconnect with my heritage and my history."
Cook Islands confirmed team vs. PNG
1. Esam Ioka
2. Malachi Morgan
3. Kayal Iro
4. Esan Marsters
5. Steven Marsters
6. Brad Takairangi
7. Tevin Arona
8. Davvy Moale
9. Rua Ngatikaura
10. Makahesi Makatoa
11. Zane Tetevano
12. Ruben Porter
13. Pride Petterson-Robati
14. William Samuel
15. Rhys Dakin
16. Justin Makirere
17. Kadiyae Ioka
18. Takai Mokohar
19. Isaiah Cooper-Tetevano
20. Alvin Maungatti
21. Lucky Pokipoki
Cook Island team news
Kayal Iro has been named in a strong centre pairing with Esan Marsters as the Cronulla young gun looks to make an impression after a frustrating season.
Brad Takairangi will skipper the side and starts at five-eighth with Tevin Arona named at halfback.
Davvy Moale starts at prop in an engine room which also includes Makahesi Makatoa and Zane Tetevano.
