Papua New Guinea is preparing for a new chapter in its national development through sport, with Prime Minister Hon. James Marape stating that the PNG Chiefs’ future entry into the National Rugby League will drive lasting economic and social growth across PNG.
The announcement was made at a press conference held at the Santos National Football Stadium, where government leaders and PNG Chiefs executives gathered to officially open the franchise’s new office complex and outline the long-term vision for the team.

Prime Minister Marape said the 2028 NRL entry would usher in what he described as a “complete lifetime readjustment” for Port Moresby, as the city and country gear up to host regular international fixtures and visitors.
“With over 800 languages and distinct tribal identities, sport becomes the universal language that binds us together. Rugby League is our number one sport. To compete in the world’s premier Rugby League competition is important for our nation,” he said.
He explained that sustained visitor arrivals every fortnight would create a continuous economic cycle rather than a one-off event, noting that larger matches such as semi-finals could attract up to 20,000 visitors to PNG.
“This is not like APEC or a one-off event. This is a perpetual adjustment to our city and our country,” he said.
The Prime Minister further outlined government investments, confirming K100 million had been injected into the Centre of Excellence last year with another K100 million allocated this year, alongside infrastructure upgrades including roads, airports and tourism development.
He also announced incentives to attract international players and staff, including tax-free contracted salaries, while commending PNG Chiefs leadership and emphasising that the team must stand above individuals and politics.
“We are not just running onto the field in 2028. We are competing. And we are preparing to win.”

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The Cook Islands kept the contest alive with early and second-half tries from Rua Ngatikaura, Reubenn Rennie, Caelys-Paul Putoko, Esom Ioka, and Delahia Wigmore. Ioka converted four of those efforts.

Leading 22–12 at halftime, the Kumuls maintained their rhythm throughout the match, despite a strong late surge by the visitors. PNG’s defense and discipline proved decisive, with Martin briefly sin-binned in the final minute.

Played in fine weather, the match offered fast, physical rugby league action that thrilled the Port Moresby crowd. The victory reinforced the Kumuls’ position as one of the Pacific’s most competitive sides.

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Rugby league holds a special place in PNG, and the arrival of the Broncos and their trophies has sparked excitement nationwide. Supporters at the airport described it as a moment of pride and a rare opportunity to interact with professional athletes.

The Trophy Tour will include a variety of events, from public trophy displays to player meet-and-greets and visits to schools and community groups. The initiative is intended to celebrate the Broncos’ success while inspiring young rugby league enthusiasts across PNG.

Today, the team will watch the international match between the PNG Kumuls and the Cook Islands before beginning their provincial visits tomorrow (Sunday). Their attendance is seen as a morale boost for fans and players alike.

Tomorrow, the Broncos will travel to Hela, Western Highlands, and Eastern Highlands Provinces as part of the tour. Officials said the initiative demonstrates the club’s commitment to engaging with fans nationwide and promoting rugby league’s growth throughout Papua New Guinea.

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PNG responded with strong attacking runs through Nene Macdonald, Judah Rimbu, and Epel Kapinias, the latter scoring under the posts late in the match to the delight of the local crowd. Dudley Dotoi also touched down early in the first half following a pinpoint pass from Finley Gare.

The crowd erupted when Prime Minister James Marape took centre stage before kickoff to unveil the name of PNG’s future NRL franchise — the PNG Chiefs — marking a historic moment for the sport in the country.

Although the scoreboard favoured Australia, PNG’s effort was full of heart, and the team’s willingness to attack from deep positions earned respect from both sets of fans.

Sunday’s event capped off a festival of rugby league that showcased the growth and passion for the game in Papua New Guinea — a nation soon to join the NRL family in 2028.
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According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s office, the agenda includes updates on preparations for the franchise, including plans for a player and staff accommodation compound, rugby league development pathways, and governance structures such as the composition of the franchise’s board.

A major topic will be the Australian Government’s proposed funding of up to A$60 million (approximately K158 million) annually to support the team and broader rugby league development in PNG.

The meeting also seeks to set timelines for infrastructure readiness, professional club operations, and the launch of a public competition to name the new team.

“This meeting is crucial as the Perth Bears have been confirmed as the 18th NRL team in 2027, and PNG’s entry in 2028 will be the next major expansion milestone,” a spokesperson noted.

Speaking to Sydney’s Radio 2GB ahead of the trip, V’landys said the visit would focus on reviewing potential accommodation sites and the centre of excellence needed to support the franchise.

“We’re going there to look at where we’re going to put all our accommodation for our players,” V’landys said. “We’re also going to look at our centre of excellence, and ensuring the ground there is going to be of sufficient standard to play NRL matches.”

He praised the PNG Government’s enthusiasm for the project. “The national government has been extremely supportive. They’re doing cartwheels about having an NRL team,” he added.

The meeting is expected to clarify the next steps and ensure alignment between all partners ahead of the historic inclusion of a PNG-based team in the world’s top rugby league competition.

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• PNG Star Alex Johnston Closes In On NRL Try-Scoring Record

Mitchell, instrumental throughout the match, assisted all four of Johnston’s tries, including the late effort that tied the game at 24-all and forced golden point, though the Storm eventually claimed a 25-24 win.

Johnston debuted in 2014 and scored his first try against the Brisbane Broncos. Since then, he has built a consistent and prolific career that has now brought him closer than anyone has ever been to surpassing Irvine’s record, which has stood unchallenged since 1973.

Former Storm star Billy Slater came the closest in modern times, retiring in 2018 with 190 tries. Now, Johnston looks set to go one better, with plenty of games remaining this season.

Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett heaped praise on Johnston, calling his performance a milestone moment in a remarkable career. “I asked him at halftime if he had another try in him and he told me he had a couple. He certainly delivered,” Bennett said.

The club is now working to extend Johnston’s contract beyond 2025. “Negotiations are ongoing, and we’re hopeful it’ll get done soon,” Bennett confirmed. /FOXSPORTS/PNGfacts

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• ​Digicel Renews K6 Million Sponsorship Deal For PNG Kumuls And Orchids

Digicel PNG Chief Executive Officer Tarik Boudiaf stated that equal support for the Kumuls and Orchids reflects the company’s belief in fairness and equal opportunity for athletes. He described the renewed sponsorship not just as a continuation, but as a progressive move to empower both male and female athletes with the same resources and recognition.

PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina welcomed the support, saying the deal ensures the national teams remain well-prepared for international competitions. He acknowledged Digicel’s long-standing contribution to rugby league and praised the new agreement as a continuation of a platinum-level partnership that reinforces PNG’s standing in the global rugby league arena.

Chairlady of the Santos PNG Orchids, Celestine Ove, expressed her gratitude, highlighting that such support was once lacking in women’s rugby. She noted the transformative impact of Digicel’s investment in helping build strong development pathways and providing elite players with the tools to compete globally. The sponsorship has been widely applauded within the rugby league community as a milestone for sporting equality and national pride.

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• SP PNG Hunters Dominate Brisbane Tigers In Impressive Hostplus Cup Victory

The SP PNG Hunters put on a masterclass performance in Round 4 of the Hostplus Cup, crushing the Brisbane Tigers 40-6 at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday, March 30, 2025. In a display of sheer dominance, the home side overwhelmed their opponents with a flurry of eight tries, while keeping the Tigers to just one.

From the opening whistle, the Hunters set the tone with relentless attacking play. Brandon Nima opened the scoring in the 9th minute, quickly followed by Zebedy Kip two minutes later. The onslaught continued as Solo Wane crossed the line in the 22nd minute, and Alex Max added another try before halftime in the 35th minute. Jamie Mavoko successfully converted two of the four first-half tries, giving the Hunters a commanding 20-0 lead at the break.

The Brisbane Tigers showed glimpses of fight early in the second half when Ryley Jacks scored in the 46th minute, with Walter Lauenstein adding the extras shortly after. However, this brief moment of resistance was swiftly quashed as the Hunters reasserted their dominance.

Alex Max notched his second try in the 62nd minute, paving the way for Sanny Wabo to score twice in quick succession in the 69th and 72nd minutes. Brandon Nima sealed the victory with his second try late in the 78th minute, while Jamie Mavoko’s accurate boot contributed four conversions throughout the match to further extend the lead.

Defensively, the Hunters were unyielding. Their disciplined structure and aggressive tackling stifled the Tigers’ attack, particularly in the first half where they were held scoreless. This resilience ensured the visitors had little room to maneuver or build momentum.

The emphatic win underscores the Hunters’ status as serious contenders in the competition this season. With a potent mix of attacking flair and defensive grit, they have laid down a marker for the rest of the league.

As the Hunters turn their attention to their next fixture, the Brisbane Tigers will need to regroup following a challenging afternoon in Port Moresby. For now, the Hunters can celebrate a statement victory that highlights their championship aspirations.

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Despite PNG’s early lead, the Cook Islands took charge with tries from Davvy Moale in the eighth minute and Steven Marsters in the 27th minute, while Marsters added a penalty goal at the 17-minute mark. This gave the Cook Islands a 14-4 lead, briefly dampening the spirits of PNG fans.

The Kumuls rallied before halftime, regaining momentum with a try from Nene Macdonald in the 31st minute, followed by another from Lachlan Lam just four minutes later. With two conversions by Kyle Laybutt, PNG edged ahead 16-14 as the first half concluded, building momentum for an assertive second-half display.

After the break, the Kumuls displayed impressive teamwork and tenacity. Robert Derby crossed the line in the 42nd minute, and Sylvester Namo added another try in the 46th minute. Laybutt’s precise conversions extended PNG’s lead to 26-14, adding pressure on the Cook Islands.

Roltinga continued his standout performance, scoring his second try in the 49th minute to solidify PNG’s control of the game. Nene Macdonald followed with another try in the 57th minute, further increasing the gap as Laybutt converted once again, making it challenging for the Cook Islands to close the deficit.

The Cook Islands responded with a try by Esom Ioka in the 71st minute, and Marsters’ conversion brought the score to 36-20. However, PNG’s lead remained firm as they held possession and executed strong defensive plays.

Morea Morea capped off the Kumuls' victory with a final try in the 79th minute, sealing a 42-20 triumph. Fans erupted in celebration of PNG’s skilled performance on both ends of the field, as Laybutt’s five conversions proved crucial to maintaining and expanding their lead.

This win not only preserved the Pacific Bowl for Papua New Guinea but also secured the Kumuls a spot in an upcoming tier-one promotion match against the New Zealand Kiwis. The game is set for Sunday, November 10, 2024, at CommBank Stadium in Sydney, offering the Kumuls an opportunity to elevate their status on the international rugby league stage.

The Kumuls’ retention of the Pacific Bowl and their scheduled face-off with the Kiwis highlight their rising stature in Pacific rugby. This victory serves as a morale boost for the team and as a source of pride for their dedicated supporters as PNG looks ahead to their next challenge, striving for a place in the upper echelon of international rugby.

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West Tigers and New South Wales captain, Kezie Apps, who will lead the Australian women’s PM’s 13 team against PNG on Sunday, was also among the arrivals. Apps will captain her side as they prepare for their clash with the PNG women’s team.

A press conference featuring the captains and coaches of both the Australian and PNG men’s and women’s PM’s 13 teams was scheduled for Friday afternoon at The Stanley Hotel and Suites.

In addition to the matches, the players will participate in several activities organized by NRL PNG, including the traditional captain’s run on Saturday afternoon, before taking the field on Sunday.

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