LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has initiated a competition to determine the name for the nation's new NRL franchise.
This announcement was made during a gathering in Port Moresby, where the Prime Minister was joined by Australia's Minister for Pacific Islands Affairs Pat Conroy, ARLC Chair Peter V'landys, and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo.
The newly formed seven-person board, chaired by former Canterbury Bulldogs chair Ray Dib, includes PNG Kumuls legend Marcus Bai, who has a rich history in the sport with premierships from his time with the Melbourne Storm and Leeds Rhinos.
The establishment of this board marks a significant advancement toward the team's entry into the NRL in 2028.
With the board's formation, steps can now be taken to make crucial decisions regarding leadership roles, including appointing a CEO and coach, as well as finalizing the team's name.
This initiative aims to further unite Papua New Guinea with Australia through rugby league.