PNG great Justin Olam has backed rookie Sea Eagles centre Josh Feledy for a Kumuls jersey as coach Jason Demetriou continues to track his development ahead of Rugby League World Cup 2026.

Feledy qualifies for the Kumuls through his mother Jacqueline, who was born in Garoka, and his family ties to Papua New Guinea extend up to three generations.

After starring for Manly in his fourth NRL appearance this season against South Sydney, Feledy confirmed his ambition to represent his PNG heritage and play for the Kumuls.

“Mum was born in PNG, Grandad was born there and I am 90 per cent sure that his dad was born there too," Feledy said.

“Growing up I heard lots of stories, my grandad loved it over there. He always spoke to me about the Kumuls and his time in Papua New Guinea, so it would mean a lot to play for the Kumuls.

“I know how much it means to Grandad, so it’s something I would love to do but I haven’t really thought too much ahead.

"I have just got back to Manly this year and am enjoying my footy and getting a few first grade games, which I am happy about.”

A Manly junior, Feledy spent three seasons at Wests Tigers before returning home this year and represented NSW U19s in 2023.

Photo: Josh Feledy with Ethan Strange after helping NSW to victory in the 2023 Under 19s State of Origin. @NRL Photos

In 2024 he played alongside Olam, whom he considers a friend as well as a mentor.

Olam played 14 Tests in the centres for the Kumuls, including the 2017 and 2022 World Cups, as well as 117 appearances for Melbourne Storm and Wests Tigers after blazing a trail from the domestic PNG competition to the Queensland Cup to the NRL.

The 2020 premiership winner and Dally M centre of the year said Feledy would be an asset to the Kumuls if he continues to gain NRL experience.

“He always talks about his connection to PNG, and he is very proud of it. He always says he wants to play for the Kumuls, and we talk about us going to PNG together,” Olam said.

“He is a tough and resilient kid, and with my time at the Tigers I got to know him. He works hard and is always willing to learn.

“Obviously, it’s up to the coach and the selectors to pick the best Kumuls team to represent the nation, and if he is part of the squad, his NRL experience will definitely help the team.

“Whatever he is doing, he is on the right track. It’s good to see him playing a few NRL games this year with Manly.

“Hopefully he gets to play a few more and his performances can get him an opportunity at the end of the year.”

Photo: PNG great Justin Olam has backed Josh Feledy's bid for Kumuls selection. @NRL Photos

The Kumuls open their World Cup campaign at Santos National Stadium on October 17 against Lebanon and also host Toa Samoa a week later before travelling to Wollongong to face England on October 30 at WIN Stadium.

With the likes of Alex Johnston, Nene Macdonald, Zac Laybutt, Robert Derby, Phillip Coates, Morea Morea, Alex Max and Robert Mathias vying for positions, Demetriou has no shortage of outside backs.

However, the Kumuls coach confirmed he had been monitoring Feledy’s performances for Manly this season and would continue to keep a close eye on his form ahead of RLWC2026.

“We have some very talented outside backs but I have been tracking him and he is on the radar but,” Demetriou said.