PNG international Ase Boas heads home after 5 games with UK club Featherstone Rovers

He’s played in two World Cups and captained his side to Intrust Super Cup glory. Now, Ase Boas is back to save the Hunters, writes LACHLAN GREY

Kumuls legend Ase Boas could be a surprise inclusion PNG Hunters in Round 4 with the star halfback announcing his immediate return from England.

Boas steered PNG Hunters to their maiden Intrust Super Cup title in 2017 but departed after he and brother Watson lucrative contract with UK club Featherstone Rovers in September last year.

Their absence has left a gaping hole in the Hunters’ spine with Michael Marum’s side averaging just eight points per game after three rounds.

But the seven-test playmaker is set to return after arranging a release from Featherstone Rovers due to family reasons.

Ase BOAS celebrates after winning the 2017 Intrust Super Cup final with PNG Hunters. Photo: SMPIMAGES.COM/NEWSCORP

In a statement, Featherstone Rovers wished Boas well and thanked him for his five-game contribution, which included a try-scoring home debut against Batley Bulldogs and kicking two goals in the team’s 46-16 victory over Halifax.

“Featherstone Rovers have mutually agreed to release Papua New Guinea International Ase Boas from his contract with immediate effect, due to sudden changes in his family circumstances.

“Everyone at Featherstone Rovers would like to warmly thank Boas for his contribution to the club and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”

Watson will remain in the UK to see out his contract.

Ase Boas tackles Luke Gale during the Rugby League World Cup quarter finals match between Papua New Guinea and England in 2017. (AAP Image/Joe Castro)

If fit to play, Boas will likely start alongside rising star Justin Yoka, who debuted strongly in the Hunters’ two-point loss to Sunshine Coast Falcons last week.

The pair will be hard pressed to break PNG’s losing streak against Easts Tigers on Saturday, who are undefeated in 2019 but Tigers coach Scott Sipple is bracing for an onslaught.

“They found some form against Sunny Coast and we know it’s always a tough encounter against PNG, so we’re expecting a big game, particularly up the middle.”

Melbourne Storm trio Albert Vete, Billy Walters and Patrick Kaufusi are no certainties to start for Easts but Sipple is confident of fielding a similar side in Round 4.