Digicel Cup bids rejected

Sepik Pride, Lagatois and Warriors turned down for upcoming season

THE Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) has rejected Digicel Cup bids from the Motu-Koita Lagatois, Sepik Pride and Simbu Warriors for various reasons.
No new teams will enter the upcoming Digicel Cup season with the existing 12 franchises to do battle in the country’s premier rugby league competition.
PNGNRLC said the Lagatois’ bid had met all the necessary requirements for basic entry, however, they had sighted a breach in its constitution.
“The PNGNRLC constitution (adopted on April 4, 2018) allows one franchise for a province,” the PNGNRLC said in a letter.
“(The) approval of PNGRFL is required to allow two or more affiliate franchises for a province.”
Fellow National Capital District franchise, the Port Moresby Vipers, are already competing in the Digicel Cup.
The Warriors’ bid was turned down due to the naming-rights sponsor and the condition of the franchise’s home ground at the Dickson Oval.
“The proposed naming-rights sponsor (Mountain Fruit Wine) is not acceptable as it breaches exclusivity rights granted to our competition platinum sponsor (SP Brewery) in respect of alcohol products,” PNGNRLC said.
“The nominated venue, Dickson Oval, was inspected early last month and was not of a satisfactory standard.
“It is reported that some work has commenced but this is not finished.”
The managements of both franchises said they would now seek legal advice regarding their bids.
Meanwhile, the rejection of the Pride’s bid received mixed reactions from the team management and fans with the franchise saying they would focus on preparing a bid for the 2022 season.