The Australian Rugby League Commission today announced the Prime Minister’s XIII to play the PNG Kumuls at Kokopo on Sunday October 12.
The team will be captained by Gold Coast Titans forward Greg Bird and includes some of the game’s most promising players.
The team was chosen by coach Laurie Daley in consultation with the Australian selectors and National Coach Tim Sheens.
Mr Sheens said the team was a combination of youth and experience.
He said the withdrawal of a number of senior players through injury had opened the way for some rising stars to be given an opportunity alongside established stars.
“The PM’s XIII has some of the game’s most experienced players including Greg Bird, Robbie Farah and Ryan Hoffman,” Mr Sheens said.
“But this match also provides a great opportunity for young players like Matt Moylan, Josh Mansour, Sione Mata’utai, Anthony Milford and Dylan Napa to gain experience alongside regular international players.
“That experience will prove invaluable in the future.”
The Australian squad for the Four Nations tournament, which begins in Brisbane on October 26 will be announced following this game.
The Prime Minister’s XIII team is;
Matt Moylan (Penrith Panthers)
Josh Mansour (Penrith Panthers)
Will Chambers (Melbourne Storm)
Sione Mata'utia (Newcastle Knights)
Daniel Tupou (Sydney Roosters)
Anthony Milford (Canberra Raiders)
Ben Hunt (Brisbane Broncos)
Aaron Woods (Wests Tigers)
Robbie Farah (Wests Tigers)
Josh Papalii (Canberra Raiders)
Ryan Hoffman (Melbourne Storm)
Beau Scott (Newcastle Knights)
Greg Bird © (Gold Coast Titans)
Michael Morgan (North Queensland Cowboys)
Brenton Lawrence (Manly Sea Eagles)
Josh McGuire (Brisbane Broncos)
Dylan Napa (Sydney Roosters)
Jack Wighton (Canberra Raiders)