Barker clarifies Hunters decision to omit promising talent

PNG Hunters chief executive officer Scott Barker has clarified Hunter's stance on the omission of Digicel ExxonMobil Cup rising star Bartholomew Evi.

Barker said the Central Dabaris speedster was initially approached by Hunters to join the pre-season squad after a vigorous maiden season in the national rugby league competition.

However, Evi was dropped from the 41-man training group after he failed to respond to the offer on time.
“He was offered a spot in the pre-season training squad but did not respond to that offer promptly,” Barker told NBC News.

“After not hearing back, we had to move on and select players that were keen and passionate about playing for the SP PNG Hunters and furthering their Rugby League careers.”

Evi had a decorated year in Dabaris colors, where he quickly established himself as one of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup top finishers, clocking off 2024 as the third-highest try-scorer with 13 tries.

The Hunters CEO expressed disappointment over Evi’s decision to ditch a train-and-trial deal, which would have potentially opened doors for the promising talent at Hostplus Cup level and top-tier rugby league abroad.

“It was extremely disappointing as he had a great year for the Central Dabaris,” he said.

The Mekeo speedster’s phenomenal form saw him earn the ‘Rookie of The Year’ and ‘People’s Choice award after a burning debut spell in the DEM Cup.

Barker said the Hunters will still monitor his performance in the new playing calendar with possible consideration for future selections.

“We look forward to keeping an eye on him in this year’s Digicel Exxon-Mobil Cup and hope one day to see him take up the opportunities presented to him,” he said.

Meanwhile, CEO Barker articulated satisfaction with the 41-man squad selected by head coach Paul Aiton and his coaching staff for the pre-season period.

He said the squad assembled has a good mix of older and younger players, eager to progress to the next phase in 2025.

Barker reiterated that Evi was not the only player overlooked by Hunters, considering the pool of talent that is currently on offer in PNG and Australia.

“There were a lot of players from around PNG and Australia that have missed out on initial selection,” he said.

“We actively monitor all competitions and encourage all players to keep working hard to earn their way into the NRL and or Super League through the various Rugby League pathways just as Rodrick Tai and Judah Rimbu have done in recent seasons.”

Hunters are currently in the first block of pre-season training and will head into the break on December 18 before the second period in 2025.