PNG Kumuls Set for Showdowns with Fiji and Cook Islands
SP PNG Hunters coach Paul Aiton is calling on his players to finish the season strong to improve their chances of representing the country in the upcoming Pacific Championships.
Aiton believes standout performances in the Queensland Cup’s final rounds could help players break into the PNG Kumuls squad, just as several Hunters did last year.
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| PNG Kumuls Set for Showdowns with Fiji and Cook Islands |
The Pacific Championships will feature both the men’s and women’s national teams. The PNG Kumuls will defend their Pacific Bowl title, while the Orchids will compete against Tonga and the Cook Islands in hopes of maintaining their international status.
Aiton welcomed the growing pool of talent, especially young Papua New Guineans developing overseas. “That competition is healthy and will make selection tougher, but it also raises our overall standard,” he noted.
He added that more Hunters earning Kumuls jerseys would be a proud moment for the team. “It reflects our progress and strengthens rugby league in PNG,” he said.
The men’s draw will see the Kumuls face Cook Islands and Fiji, both strong teams. The Kumuls must bring their best to repeat their dominant 42-20 win in last year’s final.
Fixtures for the Kumuls:
- Oct 18: Fiji vs Cook Islands
- Oct 25: PNG vs Cook Islands
- Nov 1: PNG vs Fiji
Meanwhile, the PNG Orchids are fighting to stay in the competition after a tough 2024 season. Victories over Tonga and the Cook Islands will be essential for World Cup qualification.
Fixtures for the Orchids:
- Oct 18: PNG Orchids vs Cook Islands
- Oct 25: Tonga vs Cook Islands
- Nov 1: PNG Orchids vs Tonga
Both national squads are expected to be announced in the coming months.
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