Wani to ref international match

By JACK AMI
The Rugby League International Federation has appointed Papua New Guinea referee Paul Wani, pictured, to control the East Asia Cup test between Japan and Hong Kong in Tokyo on Saturday.
Wani becomes the second Papua New Guinean after Graham Ainui who was the last international referee more than 26 years ago, according to PNG Rugby Football League chief executive Reatau Rau at an announcement in Port Moresby on Tuesday.
“This is an important milestone for PNG and PNGRFL,” Rau said.
He said it was approved by RLIF NRL manager Tas Batieri during the 2015 Pacific Games in Port Moresby, and made the recommendation early this year.
“They will travel to Brisbane for practical experience at the Queensland Independent Secondary School Rugby League Confraternity Carnival in July,” Rau said.
Rau said PNG Referees Association president Joe Peregua would accompany Wani as an interpreter to help run the test between Japan and Hong Kong.