Warriors first to bid

 OF the intending new franchises lining up for a chance in the 2016 Digicel Cup, the Simbu Warriors are the only ones who have submitted an “expression of interest” to the PNG National Rugby League.

The Warriors, sponsored by the Simbu provincial government under the auspices of Governor Noah Kool, are seeking re-entry after several years out.

The other bidders, Central Chiefs, NCD Lagatois, Lae Bombers and Duban Madang Fox have yet to submit their EOI along with the K25,000 fee to the PNGNRL board.

The major requirement for the bids is for the franchise to have a home ground.

The Chiefs, Lagatois and Bombers have yet to secure venues.

These teams have indicated their intent but are yet to follow through.

PNG NRL chairman Sidhir Guru confirmed that the Warriors were the only new franchise who submitted an EOI.

Guru said all the EOIs needed be submitted with a non-refundable fee of K25000 and not K50,000 as reported earlier. Guru said potential teams were advised to contact  PNGNRL promptly  before going to the media  so he could explain PNGNRL expectations and requirements.

The chairman said the non-refundable fee of K25,000 was a requirement for new bidders.

The successful franchises will pay an additional for affiliation fee which the PNGNRL board will confirm this weekend.

Guru said the competition would start in April but date had yet to be confirmed.

He said the draws and other relevant dates would be decided on  during the board meeting tomorrow.

Guru said the board would also decide on the affiliation fee and for the competition format (pools/ conferences) to change or remain the same as last season.

Existing franchises: Agmark Gurias, TNA Simbu Lions, Lae Snax Tigers, Bintangor Goroka Lahanis, Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles, Hela Wigmen, PRK Mendi Muruks, PRK Gulf Isapea, Jiwaka Waghi Tumbe.