National teams ink deal

Sports

THE Papua New Guinea LNG Kumuls (men) and the Oil Search Orchids (women) have signed participation agreements for next year’s Rugby League World Cup in England.
The agreements were signed by the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) chairman Sandis Tsaka and chief executive Reatau Rau.
“We are delighted to confirm our participation in yet another World Cup and showcase the talents and passion that our nation has for rugby league,” Tsaka said.
“Our national teams have made a lot of progress since the 2013 and 2017 tournaments. The Kumuls are ranked sixth since improving from 2013 (16th) and 2017 (10th) while the Orchids have moved up two spots to fourth from the last World Cup.
“Looking to build on these successes, PNGRFL has developed plans to ensure that teams are prepared leading up to the showpiece event,” Tsaka said. Next year’s World Cup will take place between Oct 23 and Nov 27. It will be the Kumuls’ seventh appearance at a World Cup and the Orchids’ second.