PNG Prime Minister speaks with Rudd about joining NRL

Papua New Guinea prime minister Sir Michael Somare provided the Kumuls with extra motivation for their clash with the Kangaroos tonight, revealing his Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd had given his support to PNG’s bid to join the NRL.

Sir Michael flew into Townsville, in northern Queensland, before the World Cup game to present the players with their Test jumpers in front of an emotional Kumuls coach Adrian Lam.

Mr Rudd met Sir Michael in Sydney late last week and briefed him on the Australian government’s position in helping PNG cash in on its huge rugby league potential and fanatical support for the game.

“Mr Rudd told me he met with the ARL and NRL two weeks ago and asked them to report back on a long-term business plan with a view to including a PNG team in the Australian (NRL) competition,” said Sir Michael.

The two leaders reportedly agreed to pursue the NRL bid as a joint program which would include building an international standard stadium, securing television rights and helping officials and players reach the level required for the NRL.

The program would also provide for the long-term development of junior rugby league.

A blueprint is already in place for a team from PNG to compete in the Queensland Cup competition within seven years as a first step towards a bid for the NRL.

The PNG prime minister, who has already committed $20 million from his government towards the project, addressed the players before their World Cup match at Dairy Farmers Stadium tonight.

“We think this is very important for us as a country,” Sir Michael told the PNG squad.

“You’ll be very pleased to know that Kevin Rudd, my brother from Australia, and I have spoken and Mr Rudd has agreed that the Australian government will help and support us with the upgrade of our sporting facilities.

“You can rest assured that we will have the facilities required for us to have a professional team that our people can devote their time to, who can represent our country.

“It is very important for you (players) to know that the prime minister and the high commissioner to Canberra and everyone in PNG, we are all with you.”

PNG have won the hearts of a lot fans with their courage during the World Cup, which included an unlucky 32-22 loss to England in their first game.

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