Orchids to name squad by next week

By SULI SULI
PREPARATIONS for the 2022 Rugby League World Cup are underway for the Santos Papua New Guinea Orchids with a 23-man squad to be announced in the coming weeks following a trial match on Saturday, an official says.
Orchids coach Ben Jeffries said the PNG-based players selected from the trial would join players from Australia and the United Kingdom for a test match against the Australian Jillaroos in the Prime Minister’s 13 fixture next month before the final World Cup squad is announced.
“Everyone needs clarity and time to prepare so the squad will be announced within the next week,” Jeffries said.
“Whoever goes through the PM’s 13 should be fit and healthy to go on to the World Cup.”
The 34 local players were split in two teams (Red and Black) for the trial match with experienced contenders Vero Waula, Joan Logona and Carol Humeu showing promising performances.
Jeffries said the majority of the local PNG women would be included in the Orchids squad to prepare for the World Cup in October.
“We have a mixture of young and experienced players in the squad,” coach Jeffries said.
“I understand what it takes to wear the jersey and what it means to be an Orchid. We have the players who played in the last world cup and also have younger ones who will make their debut.
“We’ve seen a much hungrier Orchids team going forward.”
Jeffries said once the final squad (including the 17 overseas players) was announced, the key focus would be centred on the PM’s 13 clash as the main lead up match to the World Cup.
“Most important thing is the PNG-based, Australian and UK girls need to stay motivated when the team is announced,” Jeffries said.
“They will need to work on their individual fitness and maintain it to ensure that they’re ready.”
Meanwhile, Team Black defeated Red 36-18 victory.