SHP Nines attracts 30 teams

By PARKER TAMBUA
A TOTAL of 30 teams are set to compete in the Southern Highlands Nines rugby league tournament at Momei Oval in Mendi from Jan 14-17, says an official.
Tournament director Menga Nandape told The National yesterday that teams would come from Mt Hagen, Wabag, Hela and the five districts of Southern Highlands.
He said the annual tournament, initiated by the Southern Highlands government, was aimed at identifying potential players for the province’s Digicel Cup team Mendi Muruks.
“The inaugural year saw only 16 teams take part,” Nandape said.
“But this year, it will be bigger and better.
“This year, we have 24 men’s and six women’s teams. For the men’s division, there will be four pools of six teams while the women will compete in one.
“There were more teams that expressed interest to compete in the Southern Highlands Nines, but they couldn’t meet the tournament criteria.
“Some didn’t have proper uniforms, some couldn’t provide full medical clearances for their players and others couldn’t fill their 20-man rosters.
“It’s unfortunate but there is always next year, they can come prepared.”
Nandape said last year’s tournament saw 16 players join the Muruks’ train-on squad before six of them made the final squad for the 2020 season.
He said the organisers were confident that next week’s tournament would see more rural talents catching the attention of scouts.
“We are confident that this year’s tournament will be a success,” Nandape said.
“Muruks scouts will be there.
“We’ve also invited scouts from Mt Hagen Eagles, Hela Wigmen and Enga Mioks.”