The Kumuls squad was forced to adapt against Tonga with unexpected injuries ruling out all three wingers prior to the match. But in true Kumuls spirit, all those who were asked to step up played the game with heart and produced some stellar performances.
To have a player go down in any squad is devastating news for any Coach. Having received the results from the MRI scans, the decision has been made that it is in the best interest of the injured players that they return home to start their rehabilitation.
Edene, unfortunately, succumbed to a complex injury to his groin and pelvis. He was unable to progress conservatively through stages of return and thus will require an extended period of rehabilitation, ruling him out of the tournament.
Xavier has suffered a non-contact injury during training to his hamstring, ruling him out for the rest of the tournament.
Jimmy Ngutlik has recovered and has been training well.
At this point, no decision has been made on replacement players coming into the squad.