PNG Kumuls vs Cook Islands: World Ranking at Stake Pacific Cup Challenge

In the Pacific Cup Challenge, the PNG Kumuls and the Cook Islands rugby league teams lock horns at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea on October, 2023. Both squads come into this contest fresh from impressive showings at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, each eager to stake their claim as elite rugby league outfits.

World Ranking at Stake

In the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, both teams delivered noteworthy performances. The PNG Kumuls advanced to the quarter-finals but bowed out against the eventual champions, England. Their journey included a remarkable victory over Tonga in the group stage and a fierce challenge against England in the quarter-finals.

Similarly, the Cook Islands reached the knockout stage of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, where they faced eventual runners-up, Australia. Their path was marked by victories over Wales and Lebanon in the group stage.

World Rugby League Rankings

The PNG Kumuls occupy the 6th spot in the global rugby league rankings, while the Cook Islands are positioned at 13th out of 51 participating countries. PNG will have to beat both Cook Islands and Fiji to increase the ranking. 

Both PNG and Fiji are at this sweet spot (45% winning margin) which means that losing a game can cause relegation down the rank.

The PNG Kumuls need to take note of this ranking seriously as they take the field during the Pacific Cup Challenge.

Source: https://intrl.sport/world-rankings

PNG Kumuls Squad (Pacific Test Team List)

Alex Johnston (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Benji Kot (PNG Hunters), Dan Russell (St. George Illawarra Dragons), Edwin Ipape (Leigh Leopards), Epel Kapinias (PNG Hunters), Jack de Belin (St George Illawarra Dragons), Jacob Alick (Gold Coast Titans), Judah Rimbu (PNG Hunters), Junior Rop (PNG Hunters), Justin Olam (Melbourne Storm), Kyle Laybutt (Townsville Blackhawks), Lachlan Lam (Leigh Leopards), Liam Horne (Castleford Tigers), Nene Macdonald (Leeds Rhinos), Nixon Putt (Castleford Tigers), Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos), Robert Derby (North Queensland Cowboys), Rodrick Tai (PNG Hunters), Valentine Richard (Central Qld Capras), Wellington Albert (London Broncos), Zac Laybutt (North Queensland Cowboys).

Here is the schedule for the Pacific Cup, check it out

Cook Island Squad (Pacific Team List)

Tevin Arona, Rhys Dakin, Esom Ioka, Kadiyae Ioka, Kayal Iro, Makahesi Makatoa, Justin Estall-Makirere, Steven Marsters, Esan Marsters, Alvin Maungaati, Davvy Moale, Takai Mokohar, Malachi Morgan, Rua Ngatikaura, Pride Pettersen-Robati, Lucky Pokipoki, Reuben Porter, William Samuel, Brad Takairangi, Zane Tetevano, Isaiah Cooper-Tetevano

Anticipated Showdown at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby

The PNG Kumuls and the Cook Islands will play each other in rugby league on 15th October 2023. This is called the Pacific Cup Challenge. Both teams have good players and want to win. The winning team will move up in the world rankings for rugby league.

The match will be in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The PNG Kumuls will have the home advantage, but the Cook Islands are a good team and want to win.

It is hard to say who will win the match, but it will be close and exciting.

Jack de Belin Joins Papua New Guinea Kumuls Pacific Test

In a surprising turn of events, Jack de Belin has announced that he will represent Papua New Guinea in the upcoming Pacific Cup. This is a major coup for the Kumuls, as de Belin is a seasoned NRL player with over 200 games to his name, and he has also represented New South Wales in State of Origin.

Here is the schedule for the Pacific Cup, check it out

Jack de Belin Papua New Guinea Kumuls 

De Belin had previously declined the opportunity to play for PNG, citing his lack of connection to the nation's culture and people. However, a change of heart has occurred for de Belin, thanks to an approach by newly-instated PNG coach Justin Holbrook, who had previously coached de Belin in the under-20s at St George Illawarra.

He will join a talented PNG squad, including players like Alex Johnston, Justin Olam, and his Dragons teammate Dan Russell, along with former NRL talents Nene MacDonald and Lachlan Lam. The 21-man squad also features Zac Laybutt, Kyle Laybutt, and Rhyse Martin, among others.

Papua New Guinea will kick off their Pacific Cup campaign in the second-tier bowl competition against Cook Islands on October 15 in Port Moresby. They will then face Fiji on October 29. With Jack de Belin's inclusion, the Kumuls' chances in the tournament are looking even more promising.

De Belin's impact on the Kumuls

De Belin's inclusion in the PNG squad is a significant boost for the Kumuls, both on and off the field. He is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience at the highest level of the game. He is also a tough and physical player who will bring added steel to the PNG pack.

Off the field, de Belin is a role model for young players. He is known for his hard work and dedication, and he is also a passionate advocate for the game of rugby league. His presence in the Kumuls squad will inspire other PNG players to strive for excellence.

PNG Kumuls Squad

Alex Johnston (South Sydney Rabbitohs), Benji Kot (PNG Hunters), Dan Russell (St. George Illawarra Dragons), Edwin Ipape (Leigh Leopards), Epel Kapinias (PNG Hunters), Jack de Belin (St George Illawarra Dragons), Jacob Alick (Gold Coast Titans), Judah Rimbu (PNG Hunters), Junior Rop (PNG Hunters), Justin Olam (Melbourne Storm), Kyle Laybutt (Townsville Blackhawks), Lachlan Lam (Leigh Leopards), Liam Horne (Castleford Tigers), Nene Macdonald (Leeds Rhinos), Nixon Putt (Castleford Tigers), Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos), Robert Derby (North Queensland Cowboys), Rodrick Tai (PNG Hunters), Valentine Richard (Central Qld Capras), Wellington Albert (London Broncos), Zac Laybutt (North Queensland Cowboys).

Here is the schedule for the Pacific Cup, check it out

Final words

Jack de Belin's decision to represent Papua New Guinea is a major coup for the Kumuls. He is a seasoned NRL player with a wealth of experience at the highest level of the game. His inclusion in the squad is a significant boost for the Kumuls, both on and off the field.

De Belin's decision to play for PNG is also a sign of the growing popularity of rugby league in the Pacific region. The Pacific Cup is a major tournament, and it is attracting some of the best players in the world. De Belin's involvement will help to raise the profile of the tournament and of rugby league in PNG.

PNG Kumuls Pacific Test Dates/Schedules

The PNG Kumuls are set to compete in the  Pacific Championships, which will be played from October 14 to November 5. The Kumuls are one of six men's teams and seven women's teams that will take part in the tournament, which will be played across two pools.

The men's tournament will begin with two match days in Australia, two in New Zealand, and four in Papua New Guinea. The tournament will culminate in finals in Hamilton, New Zealand, and Port Moresby on November 4-5.

The Kumuls have a proud history in rugby league. They have competed in every Rugby League World Cup since 1985 and in recent years. However, they have never won a major international trophy. The Pacific Championships is a great opportunity for the Kumuls to change that.

PNG Kumuls Set to Compete in Pacific Championships

The Kumuls are expected to be one of the strongest teams in the Pacific Championships. They have some NRL and Queensland Cup stars in their ranks, including Justin Olam and Alex Johnston. The Kumuls will also be boosted by the return of coach Justin Holbrook, who has been appointed on a two-year deal.

Holbrook has a strong track record of success, having led St Helens to the Super League title in 2019. He will be hoping to bring that success to the Kumuls and help them win their first Pacific Championships title.

The Kumuls will be facing tough opposition in the Pacific Championships, but they will be confident of their chances of success. They have a talented squad with a mix of experience and youth. If they can play to their potential, they will be a force to be reckoned with.

Pacific Championships Schedule

Week One – October 14-15

• Australia v Samoa (men) at Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville
• Australia v New Zealand (women) at Queensland Country Bank Stadium Townsville
• PNG v Cook Islands (men) at Santos Stadium, Port Moresby
• Samoa v Fiji (women) at Santos Stadium, Port Moresby

Week Two – October 21-22

• New Zealand v Samoa (men) at Eden Park, Auckland
• New Zealand v Tonga (women) at Eden Park, Auckland
• Fiji v Cook Islands (men) at Santos Stadium, Port Moresby
• PNG v Cook Islands (women) at Santos Stadium, Port Moresby

Week Three – October 28-29

• Australia v New Zealand (men) at AAMI Park, Melbourne
• Australia v New Zealand (women) at AAMI Park, Melbourne
• PNG v Fiji (men) at Santos Stadium, Port Moresby

Week Four – November 4-5

TBC.

PNG Kumuls Pacific Test

The Pacific Championships will be a special tournament for the PNG Kumuls. The Kumuls will be hoping to make the most of their home advantage and win their first Pacific Championships title.

The Kumuls have a proud history in rugby league. They have competed in every Rugby League World Cup since 1985. However, they have never won a major international trophy in recent years. The Pacific Championships is a great opportunity for the Kumuls to change that.

A victory in the Pacific Championships would be a huge achievement for the Kumuls. It would put them on the map as one of the leading rugby league nations in the world. It would also inspire a new generation of Papuan rugby league players.

The Kumuls have a lot to play for in the Pacific Championships. They have a talented squad and a home advantage. If they can play to their potential, they have a good chance of making history.

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.

PNG Kumuls Lineup 2023: Prime Minister XIII Kumuls vs Australia

PNG Kumuls Lineup 2023: The PNG Prime Minister's XIII teams for both men and women were officially unveiled at the National Football Stadium, gearing up to face off against the visiting Australia Prime Minister's XIII sides. The Prime Minister’s XIII rugby league fixture between Papua New Guinea and Australia is coming to Port Moresby after a five year absence.

The Prime Minister’s XIII has been named for the match against a PNG XIII on Saturday 23rd September in Port Moresby. The showdown will be hosted at the Santos Stadium (NFS). See the complete line for both the PNG Women's and Men's PM XIII below.

The PNG Kumuls will compete in the 2023 Pacific Championships from October 14 to November 5. Click here to find the complete schedule and other information about the tournament. The PNG Kumuls and Cook Islands lineup is here.

Here are some PNG fans-favourite that are not on the lineup for the 2023 Prime Minister XIII Kumuls vs Australia:

• Alex Johnson (NRL Finals)
• David Mead (Retired)
• Justin Olam (NRL Finals)
• Terry Wapi
• Lachlan Lam (UK Based)
• Wartovo Parua
• Sylvester Namo
• Daniel Russel
• Liam Horne
• McKenzie Yei (UK Based)
• Jacob Alick

PNG Prime Minister's XIII Men

• Treigh Stewart
• Robert Derby
• Rodrick Tai
• Zac Laybutt
• Nene MacDonald
• Gary James
• Kyle Laybutt
• Epel Kapinias
• Judah Rimbu
• Valentine Richard
• Nixon Putt
• Jerimiah Simbiken
• Cruise Ten
• Morea Morea Jnr
• Junior Rop
• Tommy Moidei
• Seal Kalo
• Benji Kot

Coach: Justin Holbrook

PNG Prime Minister's XIII Women

• Almah Johnson
• Belinda Gwasamun
• Bertshiba Awoi
• Emily Verivers
• Essay Banu
• Freda Waula
• Gloria Kaupa
• Jessikah Reeves
• La-toniya Norris
• Leila Kerowa
• Lyiannah Allen
• Mala Mark
• Martha Molowia
• Roswita Kapo
• Lancy Laki
• Sera Koroi
• Shellie Long
• Ua Ravu

Coach: Ben Jeffries

PNG Kumuls Welcome New Coach Justin Holbrook for 2023 Campaign

In a game-changing move for Papua New Guinea's rugby league landscape, the appointment of Justin Holbrook as the head coach of the PNG Kumuls is set to redefine the team's approach. Having served as an assistant coach under Trent Robinson at the Roosters, Holbrook's reputation precedes him. 

As PNG strategically bolsters its domestic pathways, Holbrook's leadership arrives at a critical juncture, aligning perfectly with the preparation for the upcoming four-week tri-series and the the PM's XIII.

Leave a comment below, what do you think about the PNG Kumuls Lineup 2023

Australia PM XIII Lineup 2023

From SP Cup to Digicel Cup: The Rich History of Semi-Professional Rugby League in Papua New Guinea

 Rugby league holds a special place in the hearts of Papua New Guineans, capturing their passion and enthusiasm like no other sport. One competition that has played a significant role in cultivating this love for the game is the Semi-Professional (SP) Cup, later known as the Bemobile Cup and now the Digicel Cup. 

This storied tournament has produced provincial heroes, unforgettable matches, and memorable moments that have become part of the nation's sporting heritage.

Inception and Early Years (1990-1993)

The roots of the semi-professional rugby league in Papua New Guinea can be traced back to 1990 when the inaugural SP Cup competition, formerly known as the SP Inter-City Competition, was introduced. 

The first grand final showcased the Port Moresby Vipers against the Mt Hagen Eagles, with the Vipers emerging victorious with a dominant 26-6 win. 

The following year, the Vipers and Eagles met again, this time drawing 18-all at full-time. The Vipers claimed victory in extra time, securing their second consecutive title and setting the tone for their dominance in the early years of the competition.

The Moresby Boys' Dominance and Goroka Lahanis' Rise (1994-1996)

The Port Moresby Vipers continued their impressive run, claiming their third consecutive title in 1992 by overpowering the Mt Hagen Eagles once more, this time with a convincing 31-10 win. 

However, their reign was finally halted in 1993 when the Goroka Lahanis emerged as worthy adversaries, dethroning the Vipers with a hard-fought 20-12 victory in the grand final.

The Vipers, fueled by a desire for redemption, bounced back in 1994, exacting sweet revenge on the Lahanis with a thrilling 20-12 triumph in the grand final. This victory solidified their position as a formidable force in the Papua New Guinea rugby league.

New Challengers and Heart-Stopping Moments (1995-2000)

As the years passed, the competition saw new contenders emerge, showcasing the depth and talent in Papua New Guinea rugby league. 

In 1995, the Lae Bombers and Mendi Muruks engaged in a memorable grand final that had fans on the edge of their seats. In a nail-biting contest, the Bombers narrowly edged out the Muruks 19-18 to claim the prestigious cup.

The 1996 competition witnessed the resurgence of a stronger Mendi Muruks, who defeated the Kundiawa Warriors 22-9 in a match that, unfortunately, had to be abandoned in the 63rd minute. 

The following year, the Mt Hagen Eagles made their fourth grand final appearance and secured their second title by defeating the Lae Bombers 29-10. The Eagles' momentum carried into 1998 when they clinched their third title with a hard-fought 24-18 win against the Mendi Muruks.

Changing Fortunes and New Champions (1999-2000)

The turn of the millennium brought a shift in fortunes, as the Goroka Lahanis reclaimed their title in 1999 with a commanding 26-0 victory over the Rabaul Gurias. The Gurias faced another setback in 2000, falling short against the Enga Mioks with a close 16-22 scoreline in the grand final.

Evolving SP Cup to Digicel Cup

The Semi-Professional Rugby League in Papua New Guinea, now known as the Digicel Cup, has been a pivotal force in shaping the nation's sporting landscape. 

From the dominance of the Port Moresby Vipers to the rise of challengers like the Goroka Lahanis, this competition has provided rugby league enthusiasts with countless memorable moments and heroes to cheer for.

The Rich History of Semi-Professional Rugby League in Papua New Guinea

 As the Digicel Cup continues to evolve, the future looks bright for Papua New Guinea rugby league, and fans can eagerly anticipate the next generation of provincial heroes.

Papua New Guinea Kumuls vs Wales Lineup and Prediction RLWC 2021/2022

The Welsh lost all three of their group matches at the last World Cup, including a 50-6 defeat at the hands of Papua New Guinea that they will be desperate to avoid a repeat of. 

With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, Papua New Guinea will not just want to win, but win-BIG to make it into the finals.

Papua New Guinea v Wales 31 October 2022

• Keepmoat Stadium (Doncaster)
• RLWC Kick off at 7:30pm

PNG Kumuls Line up

1. 1 Alex Johnston, d
2. 20 Rodrick Tai 
3. 3 Nene MacDonald, 
4. 4 Justin Olam, 
5. 19 Jimmy Ngutlik
6. 6 Kyle Laybutt, 
7. 7 Lachlan Lam, 
8. 8 Wellington Albert, 
9. 9 Edwin Ipape, 
10. 17 Emmanual Waine, 
11. 11 Nixon Putt, 
12. 12 Rhyse Martin, 
13. 13 Jacob Alick, 
14. 14 Wesser Tenzer
15. 15 Daniel Russell,
16. 22 Jeremiah Simbiken
17. 21 Sherwin Tanabi 
18. 24 Zev John

Papua New Guinea v Wales prediction

With Tonga and Cook Islands facing each other in Group D, Papua New Guinea will know that victory over Wales should see them qualify, although there is a slim chance that a win may not be enough depending on the points difference. 

With that in mind, Papua New Guinea won’t just want to win here, they’ll want to win by a significant margin. 

Expect them to come out of the traps firing against a Welsh side who struggled to keep a lid on Tonga, ultimately losing by a margin of 26 points. 

Papua New Guinea are a stronger all-round unit on paper and are worth backing to secure a high-scoring victory in Doncaster.

Papua New Guinea's RLWC campaign 2022

It has been a difficult start to Papua New Guinea's campaign with the loss to Tonga. There were lots of missed opportunities in the first game against Tonga. But the win against the Cook Islands is a vote of confidence.

It is sad to lose the stars outside-backs Xavier Coates and Edene Gabi through injury. 

They have the fire-power in NRL superstars Alex Johnson and Justin Olam. 

The result will determine which side will meet England in the quarter-finals.

RLWC 2021/2022 PNG Kumuls wins against Cook Islands

Huge game to round off the 2nd round of group games in the rugby league world cup as Papua New Guinea took on the Cook Islands. PNG bounced back from a heartbreaking loss to Tonga to contest a quarter-final berth with England.

PNG Kumuls vs. Wales RLWC 3rd Game Lineup here 

PNG Kumuls vs Cook Islands

You can see the PNG Kumuls vs the Cook Islands line up here.

The PNG Kumuls can take some positives after the narrow defeat to the Tongans. They proved they are more than capable of going toe-to-toe with the world's best nations. 

The PNG Kumuls put pressure on the Cook Islands' key players Jonathan Ford, Esan Marsters and Brad Takairangi and take control of the contest with the first try.

At full time the Kumuls scored 32 points to 16 Cook Islands.

Papua New Guinea's RLWC campaign 2022

It has been a difficult start to Papua New Guinea's campaign. There were lots of missed opportunities in the first game against Tonga. In fact, PNG Kumuls was the stronger team in the contest. They showed that in the second RLWC game against the Cook Islands with a convincing win.

It is sad to lose the stars outside-backs Xavier Coates and Edene Gabi through injury. 

They have the fire-power in NRL superstars Alex Johnson and Justin Olam. 

The result will determine which side will meet England in the quarter-finals.

PNG Kumuls or Cook Island Vs England

The Cook Islands are bookmakers' predictions, but PNG has the firepower in both forwards and backlines that causes the upset to the Kukis.

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. 

Australian Prime Minister’s XIII Line-up againt PNG Kumuls

The men’s Australian Kangaroo PM’s XIII will face off against PNG Kumuls at Suncorp Stadium before the semi-finals of the NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership.

Australian RL is fielding a strong team leading up to the Rugby League World Cup in England.

Australian Men’s Prime Minister’s XIII full squad

1. Daine Laurie
2. Josh Addo-Carr
3. Selwyn Cobbo
4. Zac Lomax
5. Jojo Fifita
6. Matt Burton
7. Daly Cherry-Evans
8. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui
9. Ben Hunt
10. Thomas Flegler
11. Nat Butcher
12. Angus Crichton
13. Josh King
14. Max King
15. Beau Fermor
16. Jake Simpkin
17. Luke Garner
18. Josh Curran
19. Jake Averillo
20. Sam Walker

Check out the possible PNG Kumuls lineup here. The Kumuls are likely to retain the team that beat Fiji Batis in the Pacific Test match in June.

Image: Fox League/Twitter

How to watch  Australian Prime Minister’s XIII vs. PNG Kumuls

All matches will be broadcast on the Nine Network and Fox Sports. 

The PM’s XIII matches will be broadcast on GEM. 

This is the first time the PM’s XIII matches will have been broadcasted on free-to-air television in Australia and in PNG.

Pacific Test Fiji Bati Squad to Take on PNG Kumuls

Fiji Bati full squad to take on the Papua New Guinea Kumuls on the 25th of June. The squad will be reduced to  25 men for the final team. 

Sydney Roosters back Kevin Naiqama will again captain Fiji Bati in the upcoming Pacific Test against Papua New Guinea, with Penrith Panthers strike forward Viliame Kikau to act as deputy.

Latest score updates  - International Rugby Matches

• PNG Kumuls 24 - 14 PNG Batis FT
• Samoa 42 - 12 Cook Islands FT
• New Zealand Kiwis 26 - 6 Tonga FT.

Check out the PNG Kumuls lineup and other RL stories here.

Here is the selection list - Fiji Bati 

1. Tui Kamikamica (Melbourne Storm)  
2. Vuate Karawalevu (Sydney Roosters)  
3. Viliame Kikau (Penrith Panthers) 
4. Issac Lumelume (Canterbury Bulldogs 
5. Iosefo Masi (NQ Cowboys) 
6. Taane Milne (South Sydney Rabbitohs) 
7. Laitia Moceidreke (NQ Cowboys) 
8. Kevin Naiqama (Sydney Roosters) 
9. Mikaele Ravalawa (St George Illawarra Dragons) 
10. Taniela Sadrugu (NQ Cowboys) 
11. Maika Sivo (Parramatta Eels) 
12. Penioni Tagituimua (Canterbury Bulldogs) 
13. Sunia Turuva (Penrith Panthers) 
14. Semi Valemei (Canberra Raiders) 
15. Brandon Wakeham (Canterbury Bulldogs) 
16. Mesake Kurititoga (Nadera Panthers) 
17. Lamar Liolevave (Tweed Seagulls) 
18. Netane Masima (West Magpies) 
19. Keylen Miller (Mounties) 
20. Tikiko Noke (Parkes Spacemen)  
21. Waqasaqa Qiolevu (Yasawa Saints)  
22. Nasoki Ralulu (Bomballa Blue Heelers)   
23. Joseva Rasiga (Parkes Spacemen)  
24. Joseph Ratu (Tweed Seagulls)  
25. Ethan Robinson Pio Seci (Avignon) 
26. Pio Sokobalavu (Mounties)  
27. Maika Tudravu (Sarina Crocs)  
28. Marika Turagaiviu (USP Raiders) 
29. Ratu Inoke Vasuturaga (Kinoya Eagles) 

The squad will be reduced in the lead up to the Test.

Watch rugby league in Fiji - Mai TV

Mai TV  will be airing the much-anticipated test match between the Fiji Bati and the PNG Kumuls!!

All the action is live and free

Fiji Bati vs PNG Kumuls Live Game Time

Saturday 25th June at 9:30pm Only on Mai TV