PNG Kumuls vs Fiji Batis Line Up Pacific Test

The PNG Kumuls will have a bye in week 2 of the Pacific Cup, which will be played on Sunday, October 22nd at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

The other week 2 games are as follows:

• PNG v Cook Islands (women) at 1.45pm AEDT
• Fiji v Cook Islands (men) at 4pm AEDT

Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby

PNG Kumuls vs Fiji Bati

The PNG Kumuls will return to action in week 3, when they will play the Fiji Bati on Sunday, October 29th at 4pm AEDT at Santos Stadium in Port Moresby.

The Fiji Bati are the defending champions of the Pacific Cup, and they will be looking to avenge their defeat to the PNG Kumuls in last year's final. However, the PNG Kumuls are a strong side and will be looking to continue their winning form after their victory over the Cook Islands in week 1.

Fiji Bati Key Players

The Fiji Bati are a strong and talented team, and they will be looking to make a big impact in the Pacific Cup. Here is a brief overview of some of their key players:

• Sunia Turuva: Turuva is a rising star in the NRL, and he is one of the most exciting young players in the world. He is a versatile player who can play at centre or wing, and he is known for his speed, skill, and athleticism.

• Maika Sivo: Sivo is a powerful winger who is one of the best try-scorers in the NRL. He is also a strong defender, and he is a key part of the Fiji Bati team.

• Mikaele Ravalawa: Ravalawa is another powerful winger who is a dangerous threat on attack. He is also a good defender, and he is a key part of the Fiji Bati team.

• Jahream Bula: Bula is a young and talented fullback who is making his Test debut in the Pacific Cup. He is a good ball-runner and has a good kicking game.

• Brandon Wakeham: Wakeham is an experienced halfback who is a good organiser and playmaker. He will be looking to lead the Fiji Bati attack.

• Tui Kamikamica: Kamikamica is a big and powerful forward who is the captain of the Fiji Bati. He is a good leader and is a key part of the Fiji Bati pack.

The Fiji Bati also have a number of other talented players in their squad, such as Viliame Kikau, Semi Valemei, and Penioni Tagituimua.

The PNG Kumuls will need to be wary of the Fiji Bati's key players in week 3 of the Pacific Cup. If they can stop these players from performing, they will be in a good position to win the match.

Treigh Stewart PNG Prime Minister's XIII Debut

The PNG Prime Minister's XIII teams for both men and women were officially unveiled, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown against the visiting Australia Prime Minister's XIII sides. 

While both teams are brimming with talent and determination, one name stands – Treigh Stewart, a debutant who has been making waves in NRL this year.

Who is Treigh Stewart PNG?

Treigh Stewart, born on 13th March 2001, has quickly become a fan favourite. Hailing from the St. George Illawarra Dragons, Stewart boasts an impressive track record, showcasing his immense talent and determination.

In his NSW Cup career, Stewart has made 35 appearances, crossing the try line an impressive 23 times. However, this season has truly defined him as a standout player.

This season, Treigh Stewart has risen to the occasion with unmatched prowess. In 19 appearances, he has demonstrated his scoring ability, registering an astounding 12 tries and 2 goals, showcasing a goal conversion rate of 100%. 

His offensive capabilities extend beyond scoring, with 10 try assists, 11 line breaks, and an incredible 68 tackle breaks.

A Playmaker and a Leader

Stewart's role isn't limited to scoring tries; he's a playmaker in every sense. With 694 receipts, he's the linchpin of his team's attacking strategies. On the defensive front, his contribution is equally noteworthy, making 105 tackles with a tackle efficiency of 68.6%.

Treigh Stewart's running game is nothing short of spectacular. With an average of 163 running metres per game, he has amassed a total of 3106 running metres in the 2023 season. 

Two standout performances capture his brilliance:

• Against the Panthers, Stewart powered through with 2 tries, 6 tackle breaks, 2 line breaks, 1 line break assist, and 3 try assists. His 262-meter run played a pivotal role in the Saints' triumphant 36-16 victory.

• In a demolition job against the Magpies, Stewart once again proved his mettle, contributing with a try, 2 line breaks, and 2 try assists, all while covering 210 meters. The result was a resounding 46-4 victory for the RedV.

The Debutant Set to Shine in PNG Prime Minister's XIII Teams Lineup 2023

Treigh Stewart's has exceptional skills and unyielding dedication. It is great to see this young kid donning the PNG Prime Minister's XIII jersey for the first time.

The clash against the Australia Prime Minister's XIII sides promises to be a memorable battle, and Treigh Stewart's presence will undoubtedly add flavour to the contest.

 Keep an eye on this emerging Kumul as he flies the red, black and gold.

Australian govt shows massive support for Rubgy League in PNG

Australia to kick in $2.25 million to support high-performance rugby league in Papua New Guinea, for both the PNG Orchids (women’s) and Kumuls (men’s) national teams.

''No one is more passionate about Rugby League than Papua New Guineans. Before tonight’s games, I’m pleased to announce $2.3m in support for high performance rugby league in PNG. This funding will help grow the game & produce the next Justin Olam & Elsie Albert'' Pat Conroy MP @PatConroy1/Twitter

Aim of Australian-funded high-performance rugby league program in PNG

The high-performance strategy will improve preparation for the women's and men's national teams, enhance opportunities for female players and help foster homegrown talent.

Who will run the program?

The $2.25 million to support high-performance rugby league will be driven by the PNG Rugby Football League with support from the Australian government and Queensland Rugby League.

How will it improve rugby league in PNG?

The Sports Minister and Queensland MP Anika Wells said this about the impact this program will have on PNG Orchids and PNG Kumuls talents in the country.

"This is a perfect partnership in assisting the next generation of Orchids (women's team) and Kumuls (men's team) to reach their potential."

PNG NRL Bid Support

This is a show of support from the Australian government for a PNG team in the NRL.