Port Moresby, 4 November 2026: Port Moresby, 4 November 2026: The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League
(PNGRFL) extends its gratitude to the Santos PNG Orchids and PNG LNG Kumuls following
the conclusion of their Rugby League World Cup 2026 campaigns.
PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka acknowledges the commitment, courage and pride shown
by both teams in representing Papua New Guinea on the world stage. He also recognises
that, while the results were not what the country had hoped for, they provided an important
indication of the state of rugby league in comparison to the world’s leading teams.
SANTOS PNG ORCHIDS
The Orchids delivered memorable moments throughout their campaign, including a strong
opening victory over France in Port Moresby, highlighted by Naomi Kelly’s four-try
performance.
“You prepared not only to compete at the Rugby League World Cup, but also to inspire a
nation,” said Chairman Tsaka. “Your courage, sportsmanship and pride in wearing the PNG
jersey have helped create opportunities and paved the way for the next generation of girls
across our country.”
While the team showed its potential, the campaign also exposed areas that need attention
as the Orchids continue to develop and compete at the highest level.
PNGRFL also acknowledges the retirement of Santos PNG Orchids representative Therese
Aiton from international rugby league, recognising her contribution to the national team and
thanking her for her service to Papua New Guinea.
PNG LNG KUMULS
The Kumuls carried the expectations of millions of Papua New Guineans throughout the
tournament, opening their campaign with a victory over Lebanon before facing strong
opposition from Samoa and England.
Chairman Tsaka acknowledged the team’s effort and commitment while emphasising the
importance of learning from the campaign.
“Our challenges are not failures. They are lessons that must guide our next steps. We must
be honest about our shortfalls and recognise our current level on the international stage if we
are to improve,” he said.
A special tribute was also paid to retiring captain and Kumul No. 262, Rhyse Martin, in
recognition of his 12 years of service, leadership and contribution to the PNG LNG Kumuls
and the nation.MEDIA RELEASE
LOOKING AHEAD
Chairman Tsaka said the next step for PNGRFL, the coaching staff and both playing groups
would be to review the campaigns together, identify key areas requiring improvement and
develop clear strategies to address them ahead of the next Rugby League World Cup.
“We must take an honest look at every game, understand where we fell short and work
together to address those gaps. These results show us where our game currently stands
globally, but they also give us a clear starting point for the work ahead,” he said.
THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS AND PARTNERS
PNGRFL also extends its sincere appreciation to the thousands of supporters in Papua New
Guinea and abroad who turned out in numbers to cheer on the Orchids and Kumuls
throughout the tournament. Their passion, encouragement and unwavering support
demonstrated the special place rugby league holds in the hearts of Papua New Guineans.
We also extend a special acknowledgement to our National Team’s naming rights sponsors,
PNG LNG, and Santos PNG, for their continued support, alongside valued partners Kumul
Petroleum, Digicel PNG, VISA, Boroko Motors and PacificAus Partnership. Their support
remains important to the growth, development, and sustainability of rugby league in Papua
New Guinea.
“On behalf of the PNGRFL Board and the entire rugby league family, I thank both teams for
their commitment and for representing their families, communities, and country. We also
thank our supporters and partners for standing with us throughout this campaign. We
recognise the efforts of everyone involved, and we must now turn the lessons from this
World Cup into action,” Chairman Tsaka said.