PNG to join NRL in 2028

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has officially been granted entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) from 2028, marking a historic moment for rugby league and the Pacific region. The announcement was made in Sydney by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and PNG Prime Minister James Marape, confirming months of speculation.

The decision is a significant milestone for PNG, where rugby league is the national sport, uniting people across diverse backgrounds. “Rugby league in PNG is extremely thankful to both the Papua New Guinea and Australian Governments. Their support was a game changer,” NRL Bid CEO Andrew Hill said.

Hill, alongside NRL Bid Chairman Wapu Sonk, has worked tirelessly to lay the groundwork for PNG’s inclusion. The journey began with the appointment of Joe Grima to lead a pathways program, followed by the creation of an academy for elite players aged 15, 17, and 19. Training centres were established across PNG, complemented by an annual national tournament to showcase talent.

These efforts bore fruit in October when the Junior Kumuls held the Australian Schoolboys to a 22-all draw in Port Moresby, a testament to the rapid development of PNG’s rugby league program.

“This is the starting point for a lot of hard work,” said Sonk. “When we run out for our first match in 2028, the whole country will be behind us.”

The inclusion of PNG is not just a boost for the nation but also a pivotal step for Pacific rugby league. “PNG is the only country where rugby league is the national game. It unites the population and has the potential to create the largest fan base of any NRL team,” Hill said.

Fans can look forward to seeing PNG make history in 2028.