League set for kick-off

THE Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2023 season is set to start next Sunday with draws to be released on Tuesday, an official says.
Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition general manager Leith Isaac told The National yesterday that they were expecting improvement in the game’s standard with new sponsors and management, including a new franchise joining the competition.
Isaac said the competition would launch its 2023-2027 strategic plan on Tuesday when announcing the draws.
Defending champions Hela Wigmen will be eying their second straight premiership for the first time while new franchise Sepik Pride will feel what it’s like to compete week-in week-out at the semi-professional level.
“It’s exciting and this year is all about improving the standards of our competition,” Isaac said.
“April 16 is the confirmed date for round one but we will announce the draws next week. All 12 teams are confirmed to compete and they have already played some trial games and are set to go.
“I am confident this season will be bigger and better now that we have a five-year plan in place and new management to lead from the front.”
Meanwhile, there have been movement of players from one team to another with former PNG Hunter and Kumul Terry Wapi joining Mendi Muruks. Wapi was part of the Hunters team from 2019-2022.
Another notable movement is Lae Tigers five-eight Milex Winis who recently joined the Port Moresby Vipers.
Former Hunter and Kimbe Cutter Tony Worot will be an asset to the Wigmen this year after he signed with the Kroton-sponsored side in January.