PNG star David Mead out of World Cup after announcing rep retirement

Papua New Guinea favourite David Mead has ruled himself out of this year’s World Cup after announcing his retirement from international duty.

The 33-year-old back has scored 10 tries in 15 appearances for his native Papua New Guinea since making his international debut as a 19-year-old in 2008.

Mead was born and raised in Port Moresby before moving to Australia at the age of 12. He has played in three World Cups for the Kumuls.

Mead said: “I just wanted to let you guys know that this Saturday will be my last game for the PNG Kumuls. I’m really looking forward to playing Fiji on Saturday.

“The reason I did make that decision is because there are a lot of young guys coming through who would benefit from this opportunity to play in the World Cup.

“I’d love for them to get the opportunity I got at the age of 19 in 2008. I was able to make an NRL career out of it. I hope that opportunity can be given to one of the young guys coming through and I hope they can showcase what they’ve got. Hopefully they can make the most of it and that was the reason why I made that decision.

“I’m very happy with it (my decision)”

“I’m excited for the game this weekend and I’m soaking up every minute of being in camp with the boys.

“I’ve had so many great memories representing the Kumuls. I’ll talk about that and share a lot more of those in the coming weeks.”

Mead has made more than 150 appearances in the NRL for Gold Coast Titans and Brisbane Broncos.

The full-back, winger or centre spent three seasons in Super League with Catalans Dragons. He scored 29 tries in 58 appearances for the Dragons, and helped Steve McNamara’s side lift their first major trophy in the Challenge Cup at Wembley in 2018.

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