Orchids to face Fiji in inaugural Oceania Cup

THE Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League has confirmed that the Orchids will face Fiji in the inaugural Oceania Cup at Leichardt Oval, Sydney, on June 22.
PNGRFL chairman Sandis Tsaka told The National yesterday that it would be a hectic calendar for the Orchids, with up to four international events lined up for the women’s national side.
Tsaka said the events were the Pacific Games Nines, Rugby League World Cup Nines and the England Roses at the National Football Stadium in October.
He said the Orchids’ Australian-based players had committed to play for the side, which would be announced on June 10.
“It is a bonus for the Orchids that the Australian-based players have made themselves available but that all is up to the selectors,” Tsaka said.
Tsaka said the Orchids squad would undergo training before the final side was announced.
Tsaka said the match against Fiji should provide a solid hit-out for the Orchids ahead of the Pacific Games campaign in Apia, Samoa, in July.
He said more international games would help the Orchids develop their skills and build experience.
Tsaka said the women’s rugby league had attracted good corporate support and “we are looking at a bright future for the sport in the country”.