PNG Rugby League Icon Says Origin Eligibility Shift a Win for Pacific

Support for the State of Origin eligibility reform has come from Papua New Guinea rugby league legend Marcus Bai, who believes the change will strengthen the pathway for PNG players aiming to reach elite competitions while maintaining national pride.

Speaking on the impact of the new rules, Bai said PNG and other Pacific nations stand to gain significantly, as players will no longer be forced to choose between representing their heritage and competing in one of rugby league’s most prestigious contests.

 PNG Rugby League Icon Says Origin Eligibility Shift a Win for Pacific/Photo : PNG Legend Marcus Bai

Under the previous system, players who pledged allegiance to tier-one nations or migrated to Australia after the age of 13 were excluded from Origin selection. The latest amendment now allows eligible players from Pacific Island nations to take part in Origin and still represent their countries in international matches.

Bai said this development creates fresh motivation for young PNG talents and could elevate the standard of the game domestically. He highlighted that his son, Cooper Bai, may in future qualify for Queensland while still being available for Kumuls duties.

“If my son Cooper is selected (into origin), it’s good for PNG because he is going to come back here and play for Kumuls at the end of the year in the world cup. If he gets selected, that’s good for the country, that’s good for us, family. So, it lifts the standard of the game,” he said.

The former international noted that some critics may question the change, but he views it as a progressive step for Pacific rugby league, especially for nations with a strong NRL presence like Fiji, Tonga and Samoa.

Bai explained that the region has produced many gifted players over the years who were unable to balance Origin ambitions with representing their heritage due to earlier eligibility restrictions.

“There’s no many PNG players playing in the NRL,” Bai said. “I don’t see any home grown player in the NRL after Justin Olam. So, it’s good for us, when the boys later on when they come into Chiefs, and they are eligible for Origin, they bring the experience back to our local kids. So, it is an exciting new for us and the wider Pacific as well.”