20th August 2012

PNG line-up two tough tests with Aussie opponents

Firstly PNG take on the Australian Prime Minister's XIII in their traditional end of season clash. This year the game takes place in Port Moresby, the PNG capital, on September 23.

It has also been confirmed that The Kumuls will be the opponents for South Sydney Rabbitohs in their now-traditional NRL season curtain-raiser called ‘the Return to Redfern’. Redfern is the home of the Rabbitohs and the match will take place on Saturday February 9 2013.

Papua New Guinea are currently ranked fourth in the RLIF world rankings behind Australia, New Zealand and England.

Rabbitohs CEO Shane Richardson said: "The Kumuls will be a tough opponent, but they will also bring a fantastic international atmosphere to this game."

"We've worked closely with Tas Baitieri from the Rugby League International Federation to pull all of the details together for this game, and look forward to revealing more aspects of this game to our Members and supporters over the coming months."

The Kumuls are also in discussion with RLWC2013 rivals and new boys the USA Tomahawks about a 2-game visit to the island nation next year.

Interim PNGRFL Administrator Ivan Ravu said: “40 players will be selected from the Digicel Cup competition and we will also consider PNG-born players playing in the Queensland Intrust Cup, Australian NRL and Super League in England. This will enable PNG to field a strong team for the World Cup next year.”