Digicel Cup open to expansion

DIGICEL Cup organisers are open to an expansion as Papua New Guinea’s premier rugby league competition begins preparations for a bigger and better season next year.
The PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) yesterday began calling for expressions of interest from existing and interested franchises.
“We have 12 existing franchises and they are the Lae Tigers, Hela Wigmen, Enga Mioks, Rabaul Gurias, Waghi Tumbe, Goroka Lahanis, Mt Hagen Eagles, Port Moresby Vipers, Gulf Isou, Mendi Muruks, Central Dabaris and the Kimbe Cutters,” PNGNRLC manager Stanley Hondina said.
“The deadline for the expressions of interest is Dec 6.”
Champions Tigers and fellow grand finalists Wigmen, Gurias and Vipers are expected to be among the first franchises to submit their expressions of interest.
The Dabaris and Cutters made their debuts last season while the Eagles were re-admitted into the competition after serving as ban following an ugly brawl during their 2016 semifinal against the Gurias.
PNG Rugby Football League chairman Sandis Tsaka said earlier this year that an expansion would see another two new teams included in 2020 to allow more provinces to field sides in the Digicel Cup.
Hondina told The National yesterday that he was expecting bid submissions to start reaching his office by next week.
It is understood that the Western Barramundis, supported by Southern Confederation director Gwaibo Mairi, are in the process of submitting their expression of interest.
PNGNRLC has urged new bidders to meet all the requirements before submitting their expression of interest.
Hondina can be contacted on 73397638 for further information.