Hunters campaign marred by injury as in-form forward prematurely ends season

The PNG Hunters' 2025 Hostplus Cup campaign has suffered a major setback with powerhouse forward Koso Bandi ruled out for the remainder of the season following a confirmed anterior cruciate ligament [ACL] injury.

Bandi sustained the injury during the Hunters’ recent match against the Burleigh Bears.

Medical assessments are yet to reveal the severity of the damage, but the 25-year-old prop is expected to face 6 - 9 months of recovery following surgery and a structured rehabilitation program in both Papua New Guinea and Australia.

Head Coach Paul Aiton expressed disappointment at losing one of the team’s key forwards during a crucial phase of the season.

"It's really unfortunate. Koso was beginning to get back into his groove and playing some quality football. To do his ACL at this stage — it's a real shame. We’ve got a few long-term injuries piling up now, which is tough on the group," Aiton said in a statement.

The injury compounds the Hunters’ forward pack challenges, with second-rower Benji Kot also sidelined earlier this season due to a similar ACL injury.

Bandi, who hails from Jiwaka Province and is a product of the Waghi Tumbe system, debuted for the PNG Hunters in 2023.

He has made 29 appearances for the Port Moresby-based franchise, including standout performances during the 2024 QRL finals series and a strong campaign with the PNG Kumuls in last year’s Pacific Championships.

Despite the setback, Coach Aiton remains optimistic about the opportunities ahead for the club’s younger players.

"Injuries are never what you want, but they do open the door for some of the younger boys to step up and show us what they can do. It’s a chance for new talent to rise to the occasion," he said.

The club will provide full medical support as Bandi begins his rehabilitation journey, with the goal of returning to full fitness ahead of the 2026 season.