Papua New Guinea is preparing for a landmark weekend at the Rugby League World Cup, with a sold-out doubleheader featuring Toa Samoa versus the PNG Kumuls in the men’s competition, followed by Fiji versus the PNG Orchids in the women’s tournament. The announcement marks a significant moment for rugby league in the Pacific, bringing international competition to the region and giving local supporters the opportunity to watch their national teams compete on home soil.
For Papua New Guinea, where rugby league holds a special place in the nation’s identity, the occasion is about more than two matches. It is a celebration of the sport, its people and the passion that continues to drive rugby league across the Pacific. Toa Samoa enters the matchup after opening its World Cup campaign with a commanding 78-4 victory over France, while the Kumuls will look to use their home advantage in front of a passionate crowd. The women’s fixture between Fiji and Papua New Guinea adds another important dimension to the occasion, showcasing the talent and growth of women’s rugby league across the region. The sold-out doubleheader adds to the tournament’s growing demand, with the November 1 clash between Toa Samoa and Tonga also sold out. The World Cup opened with Australia defeating New Zealand 24-22 in Sydney, setting the stage for a highly anticipated tournament. With international rugby league now reaching Papua New Guinea, the sold-out crowd is a powerful reminder of the Pacific’s importance to the sport and the significance of bringing these matches closer to the communities that live and breathe the game.
