LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

Global backing for PNG team as son of Kumuls great earns NRL debut

The support for establishing an NRL team in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has gained international attention, highlighted by the debut of Cooper Bai, the son of an iconic player from the nation.

Cooper Bai, who is 18 years old, is set to make his first appearance on the interchange bench for the Titans in an upcoming game against the Wests Tigers. His father, Marcus Bai, is a celebrated figure who secured a premiership with the Storm in 1999 and now serves as a director of the new PNG franchise.

In addition to his NRL debut, Cooper is anticipated to receive an end-of-season call-up to the Kumuls, the PNG national rugby league team. They are set to showcase the Visa logo on their jerseys after landing a landmark partnership with the multinational corporation.

This three-year deal is a significant endorsement for both rugby league and Papua New Guinea. Visa, recognized as a leader in digital payment solutions, has become a platinum partner of the Kumuls and the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL).