The PNG National Rugby League Competition ( PNG NRLC) , today confirmed the 12 teams that will be participating in the 2024 season of its flagship competition, the Digicel- ExxonMobil Cup.
Leith Isaac, PNG NRLC General Manager said, “This announcement comes after much deliberation with key stakeholders and by the Board of the PNG NRLC, also with findings from the recent PNG NRLC Club Audits, conducted by the PNGRFL’s High Performance team. ”
“As part of implementation of the NRLC Strategic Plan of which Club Professionalism is a key pillar, the Audit was an initiative carried out to understand the existing franchises challenges and strengths and how information and lessons can be shared across all Clubs in a coordinated manner,” added Issac.
Expressions of interest were received from four other bidding franchise clubs for the upcoming season, including the Waghi Tumbe.
PNG NRLC Board Member, Lorna McPherson confirmed the participation of 11 franchises from the 2023 competition, announcing the exclusion of the Sepik Pride franchise for season 2024 and the return of the Waghi Tumbe.
“ Like any inclusion of teams to our competition, the due process of EOIs, vetting, and filtering was undertaken for us to reach our decision. The Waghi Tumbe were no
different, being given their opportunity to bid to return to the competition,” said Isaac.
From the Board’s assessment of the four new bidding franchises, Provisional licenses were granted to Simbu Warriors and Morobe Kandes for 2025, in light of meeting most requirements in their bid application.
For the criteria that were not fulfilled, PNG NRLC will work with them to ensure the criteria are fully satisfied.
Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League ( PNGRFL) CEO Stanley Hondina in acknowledging the announcement said
“On behalf of the PNGRFL Board and management, I would like to congratulate Chairman Adrian and his board for the manner of professionalism brought into the game, building systems and processes that can help our game get better. ”
“We are excited to see the connections between the franchises and their respective associates and affiliates in their catchment areas working together - an outcome we
have always wanted to get for a while. ”
“We also congratulate the 12 successful teams for season 2024 and wish them all the best as they prepare for season 2024.
There will be continued work to support the 12 clubs and the others who weren't successful this time, in getting them to a better place come next season and beyond. This will be through our Community and High-Performance department
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