Martin set to become most capped Kumul of all time

Leeds Rhinos star Rhyse Martin will become the most capped player of all time for Papua New Guinea when the Kumuls take on Fiji in the Pacific Bowl final this Sunday in Port Moresby. 

Martin returned to the side last week for the pool game against the same opponent but he will now be hoping he can give the home crowd something to celebrate in his 17th cap for the Rugby League mad nation. 

Martin’s 17th Test will eclipse the 16 international appearances for the Kumuls by Paul Aiton and John Wilshere, who are members of the current PNG coaching staff, and the legendary Stanley Gene.

“I've been playing for the Kumuls since 2014, but we've only probably had one Test a year for five or six of those years, so it's a pretty special moment,” Martin told NRL.com.

“For me, it's a good personal achievement, but I'm just happy that I'm still capable to play and make this team, so I’m just proud of that,” added the 29-year-old, who also holds the record for points and goals for Papua New Guinea.

Former Rhinos hooker Paul Aiton paid tribute to the contribution that Martin has made. He said, “I am really proud of Rhyse and I think it is really good that he is going to break the record.

“For him to have had the opportunity to wear the Kumuls jersey so many times is a great thing for him and for the fans because it means that there is more international footy.

“Rhyse brings a lot to this team with his experience in the NRL and Super League, and his leadership.

"He is serious when he needs to be but he can also be light-hearted when he wants to be so he is a really good leader and deserving of this record.”