Muruks consider options after Lae bid knocked back

THE Mendi Muruks are considering their options after Digicel Cup organisers rejected their bid to use the Lae Rugby Ground as their home in the upcoming season, says an official.
Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) manager Stanley Hondina told The National yesterday that the Muruks had written to them about relocating to Lae as their home venue as Tente Oval was undergoing maintenance for next year’s PNG Games in Southern Highlands.
“The PNGNRLC board had asked them (Muruks) to seek permission from the Lae Rugby League management,” he said.
“The Muruks did that and we received a response from Lae Rugby League that due to the wear and tear of the ground and also other games being held there, they prefered to have only one franchise being the Lae Snax Tigers. “The Muruks agreed and advised us that they would be based in Lae for pre-season training only and they would consider their options other than Lae to be their home ground.”
Meanwhile, Hondina said PNGNRLC had advised Port Moresby-based Gulf Isou and Hela Wigmen to return to their home provinces.
“We have made it known to the teams in their participation agreement,” he said.
“They are making necessary arrangements to go back home as they are aware of it all.”
He said PNGNRLC would hold a press conference today to make further announcements on the upcoming season.