Fiji to adopt PM’s 13 clash, Beattie credits PNG league

SYDNEY: The Australian Prime Minister’s 13 men’s and women’s teams will take the field in Fiji at the end of 2019, marking the first official PM’s 13 matches in the country.
The Australian Rugby League Commission and Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed the fixtures yesterday, to be played at ANZ National Stadium in Suva in October.
In making the announcement, Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter Beattie, pictured, reiterated a previous commitment to continue to see rugby league grow within the Pacific.
“The PM’s 13 match has been a wonderful part of our game since 2005 and in recent years, has included a double-header featuring some of our leading male and female players,” Beattie said.
“I’m delighted the matches will continue and it’s wonderful that the Prime Minister of Fiji and Fiji Rugby League have accepted the opportunity to host the matches.”
Beattie said there was no doubt that the exuberance and passion for rugby league in Papua New Guinea was key to the success of the PM’s XIII fixture growing in stature.
“I attended the Prime Minister’s matches in Port Moresby in October last year, and it was one of the best atmospheres I have ever encountered at a rugby league match.
“Rugby league owes a great deal to the people of PNG and their Prime Minister and our aim is to see more rugby league players visiting PNG and more games being played in the region over the coming years — including the PM’s 13 fixture.
“At the same time, it’s important to continue to strengthen rugby league throughout the Pacific, including playing matches, delivering community programs and supporting wellbeing and education.
“I look forward to the Prime Minister’s 13 matches in Fiji later this year — and the continued growth of rugby league right throughout the Pacific.” – NRL