The Australian Men’s Prime Minister’s XIII squad was announced on Thursday by the Australian Rugby League Commission and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. 

The side is set to take on Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby on October 13.

Brisbane forward Kobe Hetherington – who is set to leave the Broncos for the upcoming season – is one of the 13 names selected. 

Hetherington’s departure was announced last month after the Broncos enabled him to enter talks with rival clubs.

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His manager Chris Haddad revealed to AAP that the 25-year-old is in talks with five NRL teams. 

Haddad also clarified that Hetherington’s decision to leave was only because he felt he deserved a starting spot, and had nothing to do with declining performances under former coach Kevin Walters. 

Meanwhile, departing South Sydney Rabbitohs hooker Damien Cook is set to captain the PM’s XIII, which also includes young names like Lachlan Galvin, Fletcher Sharpe and Xavier Savage. 

“These games represent far more than just a couple of games of footy for up-and-coming stars. It’s an important chance to share our love of the game with PNG – our closest neighbour and dear friends,” Prime Minister Albanese said. 

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM said in a statement: “The players chosen are some of the best and brightest in the game, and they get to wear the green and gold with pride.”

“Not only do they get to represent their country, they also have the opportunity to be ambassadors for the game, to change lives.”

2024 Prime Minister’s XIII Men’s squad