The Mole's round five Team of the Week: Born-again NRL star making a mockery of his former coach
Born-again NRL star
Kai Pearce-Paul has turned into one of the best backrowers in the NRL, helping the Tigers to a stunning Easter Monday win.
It raises the question - why couldn't he play like this at his former club?
This is who made The Mole's team of the week for round five.
1. Will Kennedy (Sharks)
Cronulla keep wondering if he is a top class fullback capable of leading them to a title - and he keeps producing games like this - two tries and several breaks in the win over the Warriors.
It's baffling Kennedy is still without a contract for 2027 and beyond.
2. Tom Jenkins (Panthers)
Continued his remarkable start to the season with his fifth straight try double in the thrashing of the Storm on Friday night.
3. Latrell Mitchell (Rabbitohs)
On the spot to score two tries from kicks to inspire the Rabbitohs to their fine win over the Bulldogs on Good Friday.
4. Jaxon Purdue (Cowboys)
Challenging Casey McLean as the hottest young centre in the league - scored two tries and set up another in the big win over the Dragons at Kogarah on Saturday night.
Queensland Origin bolter.
5. Jesse Arthars (Broncos)
Justified his recall to the Broncos team with a busy game against the Titans, making the most of his chances out wide.
Was also asked to play fullback in the second half after Reece Walsh was knocked out of the game.
6. Cody Walker (Rabbitohs)
Under pressure after a slow start to the season, he bounced back on the big stage at Accor Stadium on Good Friday, laying on two tries with pinpoint kicks against the Bulldogs.
7. Nicho Hynes (Sharks)
Loves games like this when the opposition give him time and space, having a hand in three tries and kicking six from six against a poor Warriors outfit.
8. Jacob Saifiti (Knights)
Continuing his best start to a season, churning out the big numbers in attack and defence to put the Newcastle pack on the front foot against the Raiders.
9. Phoenix Crossland (Knights)
The heart and soul of the Newcastle pack, leading the tackle count and working well out of dummy half in the defeat of the Raiders.
