Hull KR's Rhyse Martin misses Papua New Guinea victory with absence explained

Papua New Guinea were victorious on Sunday as they secured victory over Cook Islands, but there was a notable absentee. The Kumuls eventually ran out comfortable winners as they prevailed 42-20, securing a clash with New Zealand in the Pacific Championships promotion-relegation match.

However, Hull KR's new recruit, Rhyse Martin, was not involved. The Kumuls captain was replaced in the matchday squad by Warrington Wolves' new signing Dan Russell, a move that saw Leigh Leopards halfback Lachlan Lam captain the country for the first time.

It was explained that Martin had been left out for personal reasons and it's unclear whether he will be available to feature against the Kiwis next weekend.

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Cook Islands had established a 14-4 lead early on but Lam and Salford star Nene Macdonald instigated a major fightback, which saw them score 32 unanswered points. Macdonald, Lam and Castleford Tigers prop, Sylvester Namo, were among those on the scoresheet.

There was plenty of Super League representation in the contest. As well as those mentioned, Warrington's Rodrick Tai started for PNG at centre while Castleford's new recruit, Judah Rimbu, and current star Liam Horne were also involved. Salford's new signing, Esan Marsters, played at fullback for the Cook Islands in a team featuring former Super League players Brad Takairangi and Zane Tetevano.

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