PNG ready for WC

By PARKER TAMBUA
KUMULS coach Michael Marum says they are eager to experience the passion of Warrington fans who will host the national men’s team at next year’s Rugby League World Cup in England.
The World Cup team bases were announced on Wednesday with the national women’s team (Orchids) to set up camp in Leeds.
A total of 32 teams from 21 nations will be based in towns and cities across England.
“We’ve talked to the host organsing committee and the facilities there are great,” Marum said of the Halliwell Jones Stadium, where English Super League side Warrington Wolves play their home games.
“The town has passionate fans and a big rugby league following so it’s great that we’ll be based there.
“We will only play one game there and two away but we will be using their (Wolves) training facilities throughout the tournament.”
Asked whether the cold climate was a concern, the former Kumuls rake said: “I don’t think climate would be a problem.
“We’ve been there before so if we can go there well before the tournament starts and acclimatize, then it’ll be alright.”
Meanwhile, Paul Taylor — who chaired Warrington’s initial bid group — said: “The announcement that we’ll be welcoming PNG to Warrington is hugely exciting.
“A team and nation of such energy, vibrancy and hunger is a perfect match for our town.”
Warrington Borough Council leader Russ Bowden said: “I’m really excited to be welcoming a nation that equals our own love for the sport. “In the same way, we as a town continue to punch above our weight, so too, do PNG.
“Being ranked sixth in the world, the Kumuls could be a genuine contender and dark horse so it’s a mouth-watering prospect that our town will be looking after them during the tournament.”
The Kumuls will face Tonga, Wales and the Cook Islands in Group D.
The Orchids will meet hosts England, Canada and Brazil in Group A of the women’s tournament.