Southern Blacks eye Digicel Cup

MORESBY South Blacks are upbeat about joining the Digicel Cup next year despite the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition revealing the possibility of no new teams in 2022.
Competition manager Ora Gairo told The National earlier this month that any decision on new teams would depend on the Coronavirus (Covid-19) situation in the country.
Asked for a comment on the matter, Moresby South Rugby League chairman Brown Murema said Blacks were prepared to bid for inclusion in the country’s premier rugby league competition.
“The Covid-19 will deter us from pushing for Digicel Cup inclusion,” he said.
“The pandemic is here to stay and I think rugby league in this country has handled the situation for the past two years.
“By now, we should have had adjusted to the Covid-19.
“We all understand the guidelines, player safety and the importance of vaccination, so I don’t see a reason Blacks can’t enter the competition.
“We meet all the criteria that is required by competition.
“We are now only waiting for sponsors.
“We are in discussions with business houses in the electorate.
“The Moresby South Development Authority, under MP Justin Tkatchenko, is backing us.
“Our stadium is world-class.
“We also have an abundance of talented players, so I really don’t see a weak point in our bid.
“We are confident.”
Murema said Port Moresby deserved to be allocated three franchises, given its population and player base.