Papua New Guinea has been given the green light to host an NRL club in a new look competition, which could see the country field a side as early as 2027.
Many PNG ministers were briefed about the bid Wednesday night before kickoff of the Origin decider. The successful application has been discussed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with PNG head James Marape over the last few weeks.
Papua New Guinea chairman Wapu Sonk and chief executive Andrew Hill shared the news, which is sure to shake up the competition, which is heading towards a 20-team platform.
The target season is set for 2028, but stakeholders at PNG suggest a 2027 entry should not be ruled out. The NRL will have the final say on when the side makes its maiden season appearance.
“It’s imminent. We are tying up the loose ends now to formalise it. It’s getting near, it’s becoming a reality,” said Sonk.
“As we enter the final stages we will commence more formal discussions with the corporate sponsors.
“There have been several meetings between the Australian and PNG Governments and the NRL. We won’t be like other NRL clubs in Australia, who have their own regions. We are a country with a population of more than ten million people. Companies are queuing up to support the bid and team.
“At a minimum, we could get a million members. We will break every criteria the NRL uses, it’s crazy. Everything will be five, ten-fold. The NRL will realise it will be a very good investment.”
The deal has all but been confirmed, but the federal government are prepared to be part of a funding plan worth over $600m.
“Rugby league in PNG is a national sport and has always dominated. There’s no doubt rugby league is the one thing that unifies PNG. It not only connects the villages, communities and people but also the corporates and businesses,” Hill said.
Perth is poised to join PNG as the NRL’s second new side – along with talks of another New Zealand outfit.
Only one of the two sides could join by 2027, with the other having to wait another two years.
