Epel Kapinias hails from East New Britain province and began his career with the Agmark Gurias in PNG’s Digicel Cup Digicel Cup competition before joining the SP PNG HUNTERS in 2019.
After three seasons at the Hunters, the 24-year-old prop joined Hostplus Cup rivals Wynnum Manly Seagulls this year and is enjoying life at the Brisbane-based club.
“When I came here to Australia, I knew opportunities would come my way if I keep my consistency and play well week in, week out,” he said.
“It’s great to be part of the Kumuls team this week and I’m looking forward to learning a lot from the senior boys here such as David Mead, Justin Olam, Alex Johnston and Wartovo Puara.
I can’t wait to run out onto the field this Saturday and hopefully I’ll get called up for the World Cup too.”
PNG LNG Kumuls captain David Mead, who has played alongside Epel at Wynnum Manly added: “Epel is an exciting young talent.
He is always keen to learn, and my first impressions of him were that he is always seeking feedback from the coach. It will be exciting to see him pull on the Kumuls jersey this week.”