Rimbu’s Super League move gets backing from Hunters coach

PNG Hunters coach Paul Aiton has supported star hooker Judah Rimbu as he embarks on a new journey in Super League next season.

The Hunters stalwart dummy half was reportedly signed by Hull FC on a 1-year deal last month and is bound for England in 2025 and beyond.

Aiton admitted the news was not a surprise, given Rimbu’s form and vowed his backing to propel the 22-year-old to the top-flight competition in United Kingdom.

“To be honest, coming into this season, I thought we'd lose him anyway,” Aiton said.

“He's shown what he's capable of and he keeps getting better and better and I think he's ready to go. I had that in mind anyway.

“It was just a matter of time before we heard that news, so I thought it was going to come anyway. We're very proud of him and hopefully he continues. He keeps getting better and better.

“His role is changing a little bit, and it shows a little bit more of how he can play, which will probably be more attractive to other clubs that are interested. I wish him all the best in that and hopefully more can go too.”

The former Hela Wigmen premiership winner has established himself as a prominent hooker for the PNG Hunters in three seasons since his debut in 2021.

Rimbu has played 64 games for Hunters in Queensland Rugby League competition, scoring 14 tries of which 9 were recorded this year.

The youngster also made his Kumuls debut in the Pacific Championships last year, playing across three games in which PNG won the Bowl title over Fiji in Port Moresby.

The crafty hooker will join Hull FC at the end of 2024 season as the UK based club looks to solidify is squad for the new playing roster next year.

Rimbu’s inclusion will add depth and experience in a new-look pairing with Amir Bourouh, signed from Salford Red Devils on the similar role.