In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Tupou set for Moana Pasifika debut and Paea returns home for Chiefs clash
2. RUGBY — Fijian Drua debut for Basiyalo
3. RUGBY — Great Council of Chiefs questions future of Fiji’s Cibi
4. RUGBY — Fiji 7s team arrives, preps continue
5. RUGBY — Filipo Daugunu hits 100 Super Rugby games as Queensland Reds name team against Crusaders
6. FOOTBALL — FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers Round 3 | Players to watch
7. CRICKET — Samoan under-19 girls humble PNG select-side
8. PARA ATHLETE — Inspiration drawn from a para-athlete champion, Chimbu mourns
9. GOLF — PNG Open crowns golf’s rising stars
10. CRICKET — ICC announces schedule for upcoming East Asia-Pacific Qualifiers
11. RUGBY — Wallaroos ready to begin World Cup push against world class Canada
12. RUGBY — Grealy, Force ready to unleash ‘new toy’ Lomax after false start
13. RUGBY — Patient Brumbies handed double Wallaby boost as Alaalatoa, Lonergan cleared for Highlanders clash
PAC – RUGBY: MOANA PASIFIKA PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Tupou set for Moana Pasifika debut and Paea returns home for Chiefs clash
AUCKLAND, 08 APRIL 2026 (MOANA PASIFIKA) —Veteran lock Jimmy Tupou will make his Moana Pasifika debut, when the team hosts the Chiefs at Rotorua International Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Tupou will go up against his former team who he played for during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, bringing his valuable experience and leadership to spark energy off the bench.
Previously he played for the Blues, Crusaders and Japanese club Urayasu D-Rocks. He also played a key role when Counties Manukau won an NPC title in 2012.
Joining Tupou on the bench is hard-working loose forward Semisi Paea who is excited to be back in his hometown.
Paea was raised in Rotorua and attended Rotorua Boys High School. He has played for Ngongotaha Rugby Club, Whakarewarewa and has also been part of the Bay of Plenty Steamers since 2021.
“There is no greater feeling than hearing your name get called in the squad to play in the city that raised you,” Paea said. “This is a dream come true and I’m looking forward to representing my family and this franchise in my hometown.”
For the first time in eight years, a Super Rugby game will be played in the Bay of Plenty city. Moana Pasifika are looking forward to connecting with their fans in the region and showcasing their unique Pasifika hospitality and flair.
Malakai Hala-Ngatai who has ties to Te Arawa earns his first start at loose-head prop. The 23-year-old was part of the New England Free Jacks historic three-peat in 2025.
He also played for the All Blacks Under 20s team at the World Junior Championship and went through the Manawatū Rugby Academy.
Exciting young prospect, Tyler Pulini who made an impact in his debut against the Chiefs five weeks ago, will also get another opportunity to showcase his skills.
Starting XV
1. Malakai Hala-Ngatai
2. Millennium Sanerivi
3. Paula Latu
4. Tom Savage
5. Veikoso Poloniati
6. Miracle Faiilagi (c)
7. Niko Jones
8. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa
9. Augustine Pulu
10. Jackson Garden-Bachop
11. Glen Vaihu
12. Lalomilo Lalomilo
13. Tevita Latu
14. Solomon Alaimalo
15. William Havili
Impact
16. Samiuela Moli
17. Abraham Pole
18. Atu Moli
19. Jimmy Tupou *DEBUT
20. Semisi Paea
21. Melani Matavao
22. Patrick Pellegrini
23. Tyler Pulini
Unavailable Due to Injury: Allan Craig (head knock), Joel Lam (quad contusion), Julian Savea (shoulder), Lolani Faleiva (shoulder), Monu Moli (foot), Ngani Laumape (knee), Simon Peter Toleafoa (knee), Tevita Ofa (finger), Tito Tuipulotu (thumb), Tupou Afungia (neck).…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Fijian Drua debut for Basiyalo
NADI, 09 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Former Fiji 7s rep, Sikeli Basiyalo, will make his Super Rugby Pacific debut for the Fijian Drua.
Head coach Glen Jackson has named the youngster on the right wing.
The former Cuvu College student from Volivoli village in Nadroga featured for the Fiji 7s team at the Hong Kong 7s last year.
Basiyalo and Ilaisa Droasese are the new wingers this week.
Tuidraki Samusamuvodre returns at outside center and Sikeli Rabitu starts at fullback.
Haereiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama and Mesake Doge leads the pack upfront with co-captain Isoa Nasilasila and Joseva Tamani as locks.
The loose forwards are Etonia Waqa, Motikiai Murray and Elia Canakaivata.
Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula,and Iosefo Namoce completes the backline.
There’s some good news for fans after Simione Kuruvoli was named as one of two backs on the bench.
Mesulame Dolokoto ,Emosi Tuqiri, Samuela Tawake Mesake Vocevoce ,Kitione Salawa, Vilive Miramira and Manasa Mataele completes the match-day 23.
Fjian Drua’s back three are expected to be under a lot of pressure from the Western Force’s kicking game in their Super Rugby Pacific clash in Lautoka on Saturday.
The Force have an average of 25 kicks in play per game in the last seven rounds.
This is something, Drua head coach, Glen Jackson and his team will have to brace for.
Jackson says if they can get on top of the visitors kicking game then it can work to the home side’s advantage.
He said that the Force is expected to unleash former Kangaroos and New South Wales State of Origin rep Zac Lomax in Lautoka.
Jackson also says that it’s a difficult week for fans especially those in the western division but hopes they can turn up on Saturday to support the side.
The Drua hosts Western Force at 4:35pm in Lautoka on Saturday …PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Great Council of Chiefs questions future of Fiji’s Cibi
SUVA, 09 APRIL 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) had questioned the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) board of directors on their intention about the traditional war dance, the Cibi, performed by the Flying Fijians before the start of a Test match.
This was confirmed to SUNsports by FRU board chairman John Sanday.
He said the question came up after their presentation to the GCC in Suva, late last month.
“At the completion of our presentation, there was a good and vibrant discussion and one of the questions posed (to us) was whether the Cibi, should be replaced to reflect the new Fiji since this version was done during colonial times?” Sanday recalled.
“We (FRU board) respectfully said we would consider the question and have another good look at it. Historically, it is my understanding that the Cibi, we currently perform was borne out of the 1939 tour of New Zealand by the Fiji team.
“If we are to make any change we will have to respectfully ensure all traditional protocols are followed.
“The late Turaga Na Vunivalu, Ratu Sir George Cakobau was the captain of that team, and he wanted a challenge to rival the All Blacks ‘Haka’.
“The late Vunivalu then asked Ratu Bola, also of (Navusaradave) Bau, to compose a war dance which he then produced the current Cibi, which has been used ever since.”
That Fiji team (in 1939) created history by being the first team in the world to have an unbeaten tour to New Zealand winning seven matches and drawing one.
However, Sanday said he is of the opinion that we need to tread carefully and respect the origins of the Cibi, and the traditional values built into the process of producing it.
“If we are to make any change we will have to respectfully ensure all traditional protocols are followed,” he added.
Key All Blacks players to revolutionise the Haka in 1985 was Wayne Shelford and Hika Reid, they made the Haka far more regimental and frequent. The ritual was a big hit straight away and helped produce World Cup scenes such as the inaugural final in 1987 and subsequent spine-tingling moments in the 1991 semi-final and 1995 final.
Sanday said during his travels around the country, he has been asking fans on their views of whether to change the Cibi, or replace it with a new one.
“The responses have been interesting with many saying we should not change it and keep the historical tradition of it alive as it was an expression of our culture,” he said.
“Another version I heard was that maybe we should remove it and replace it with a hymn singing option like the Fiji Bati (rugby league). Another was to just make a few changes on the current choreogra-phy of the Cibi.”
Sanday said decision of what step to take when it comes to the Cibi, the FRU board of directors will have to deliberate on it very care-fully and get the wider views of our rugby fans.
“It is important to continue to showcase the beautiful Fijian culture to the world as we continue to grow the business of Fiji Rugby globally, it is a very important symbol of our strong brand,” he added….PACNEWS
HONG KONG – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Fiji 7s team arrives, preps continue
HONG KONG, 09 APRIL 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The Fiji men’s rugby 7s side is the first team to arrive for next weekend’s 50th Hong Kong 7s tournament.
The Osea Kolinisau coached side arrived in Hong Kong on Sunday to start their preparations as they are in Pool B with France, Great Britain and Germany.
This year’s Hong Kong 7s tournament from April 17-19 is promising to be the biggest in the tournament’s 50-year history, with organisers saying they had already sold the equivalent of 100,000 tickets.
Last year’s crowd for the 7s debut at Kai Tak Stadium was more than 110,000 for the three days, and officials expect to surpass that figure with all corporate boxes and individual hospitality sold out.
The South Stand Pass category offering access to the infamous party area is also sold out, although seating in the stand remains open to all adults holding general admission tickets on a first-come, first-served basis during the tournament.
Bryan Rennie, executive director of commercial and business operations for Hong Kong China Rugby, told South China Morning Post, the governing body was “delighted to celebrate this ticketing milestone.
“One-hundred thousand tickets are the equivalent of just over 33,000 three-day passes, which means we are well on our way to another bumper crowd for the event,” he said.
The 2025 tournament reportedly generated some US$97 million (FJ$219m) for the local economy, and Rennie said that would again be “reinvested in the sport and our community”.
“We are grateful for the support of our fans across Hong Kong, the region and around the world and look forward to welcoming them all to a very special 50th anniversary in April,” he added.
As part of the changes made to the HSBC SVNS Series, this year’s tournament is one of three World Championship events and will feature 24 teams: 12 men and 12 women.
TEAM LISTS
Fiji men’s squad: Jeremaia Matana(captain), Joseva Talacolo, Tira Patterson, Terio Tamani, Filipe Sautura-ga, Apete Narogo, Vuiviwa Naduvalo, Kavekini Tanivanuakula, Nacani Boginisoko, Manueli Maisamoa, Douglas Daveta, Isaia Rugu, Akuila Dranivotua, Wame Ratuva, Tomasi Vuluma.
Fiji women’s squad: Verenaisi Divavutu, Sesenieli Donu, Sera Bolatini, Silika Qalo, Vanu Buleki, Reapi Naul-unisau, Rogosau Adimereani, Mariana Talatoka, Lavena Cavuru, Atelaite Ralivanawa, Ilisapeci Delaiwau, Lusiana Tinai, Varisika Delana…..PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Filipo Daugunu hits 100 Super Rugby games as Queensland Reds name team against Crusaders
BRISBANE, 09 APRIL 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Crowd favourite Filipo Daugunu will celebrate his 100th Super Rugby appearance on Saturday night’s grand stage at Suncorp Stadium against the Crusaders.
Daugunu’s high-voltage style for the Queensland Reds has been a major plus this year and in 2025 since his return to Brisbane in Swyftx Super Rugby Pacific.
The 31-year-old has been selected on the wing for Saturday night after scoring his 35th Super Rugby try in last weekend’s loss to the Western Force. Daugunu’s 99 Super Rugby games include 12 outings during his time as a Melbourne Rebel.
Two changes to the starting side have been made for Saturday night. Wallabies hooker Matt Faessler and winger Tim Ryan come in for Josh Nasser and Treyvon Pritchard, both ruled out as they advance through HIA protocols.
On the bench, experienced hooker Richie Asiata and centre Isaac Henry are fresh figures to add punch later in the game.
“It’s great to see ‘Lipo’ reach this milestone,” Reds Head Coach Les Kiss said.
“The guys love playing with him. He’s a fantastic character in our locker room and on the field.
“He makes so many crucial plays whether that’s in attack, a big moment in defence or one of his trademark jackals at the breakdown.”
Fans have reacted to the Crusaders playing at Suncorp Stadium for the first time since 2023 with a strong take-up of tickets for Saturday night.
The night will be elevated by the presence of members of the Reds’ 2011 championship team who famously toppled the Crusaders in front of a full house at Suncorp Stadium to claim the title. Members of the team will show off the 2011 Super Rugby trophy to the crowd in the half hour before the 7:35pm kick-off.
Saturday’s match-up is one of the most anticipated in Super Rugby in Australia and will be amplified by the Queensland Rugby Union celebrating Country Round.
The Country Round theme offers country fans, families and players a chance to attend a prime Super Rugby match during the school holidays while also celebrating the strong Country origins of players and coaches at the Reds.
Kiss, a Bundaberg product, said Country Round adds to the connection the Reds feel with their fans at Suncorp Stadium.
“We really appreciate the support we get at home at Suncorp Stadium. It gives us a great sense of pride that we represent the state of Queensland and Country Round just adds to that feeling,” Kiss said.
Kiss said the clash against the Crusaders is a challenge the team is looking forward to.
“We are certainly playing one of the form teams. Super Rugby Pacific does not relent. It is a fantastic comp and we meet a big challenge this week,” Kiss said.
Reds centre Josh Flook said players had refocussed after last weekend’s disappointment against the Force.
“There were obviously lots of individual looks in the mirror. You’ve got to take care of your own performance first and we’ve come in this week as a group and gone back to a few of our principles of the past few years,” Flook said.
“It’s been looking at what we can do better and putting that altogether for an 80-minute performance.
“They are an electric team. This weekend has got to be a whole 15-man performance on the field from us.
“They are going to get a break here and there so it’s about our hustle to get back, being useful to help each other in defence and making those two-man tackles to put them on the back foot. It’ll take that team mentality to get one over them.”
Queensland Reds
1 Aidan Ross – Bond University – Otumoetai College, NZ – Te Puke Sports
2 Matt Faessler – Brothers – Toowoomba Grammar – USQ Saints
3 Nick Bloomfield – Easts – Anglican Church Grammar School – Easts
4 Seru Uru – Easts – Ratu Kadavulevu School, Fiji – Namoli RC, Fiji
5 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto – Souths – John Edmondson HS, Sydney – Southern Districts, Sydney
6 Joe Brial – University of Queensland – Scots College – Easts, Sydney
7 Fraser McReight (c) – Brothers – Brisbane Grammar School – Albany Creek Brumbies
8 Harry Wilson – Brothers – St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace – Gunnedah Red Devils
9 Kalani Thomas – Souths – Ipswich Grammar – Souths
10 Carter Gordon – Wests – Sunshine Coast Grammar – Wests
11 Tim Ryan – Brothers – St Patrick’s College, Shorncliffe
12 Hunter Paisami – Wests – Mangere College, Auckland – Manukau Rovers
13 Josh Flook – Brothers – Nudgee College – Brothers
14 Filipo Daugunu – Sunnybank – Dogotuki District School, Fiji
15 Jock Campbell – University of Queensland – The Southport School – Inverell Highlanders
Replacements
16 Richie Asiata – Sunnybank – Anglican Church Grammar School
17 Jeffery Toomaga-Allen – Norths – Wellington College, NZ
18 Zane Nonggorr – Bond University – The Southport School – Gold Coast Eagles
19 Hamish Muller – Brothers – Toowoomba Grammar – USQ Saints
20 Vaiuta Latu – Brothers – St Peters Lutheran College – Pine Rivers Pumas
21 Louis Werchon – Wests – Sunshine Coast Grammar – Maroochydore Swans
22 Harry McLaughlin-Phillips – Wests – Brisbane Boys’ College – Gunnedah Red Devils
23 Isaac Henry – Wests – Brisbane Boys’ College – Kenmore Bears….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers Round 3 | Players to watch
AUCKLAND, 09 APRIL 2026 (OFC)—Four nations have their sights set on one ticket to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 as the third and final stage of the Oceania Qualifiers get underway in New Zealand this weekend.
Amongst them are a cast of the region’s top women’s talent, each looking to make their mark as crunch time arrives in the qualification process.
We’ve picked one player from each of the four remaining teams to watch out for, with the winning nation set to book their global finals in Brazil, and the runner-up securing a second chance through the intercontinental play-offs.
Kelli Brown | New Zealand
Age: 25
Position: Forward
Born in Ngāhinapōuri, a rural community 15km south of Hamilton, Kelli Brown will be returning to familiar soil for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers Round 3 semi-finals, having starred for New Zealand during Round 2 of the qualification process in Honiara in February.
Brown scored her first senior international goal for the Football Ferns and completed a hat-trick in an 8-0 victory over Samoa during Round 2, before taking her tally to four in a New Zealand shirt with one more in a 3-0 win over American Samoa.
Brown currently plays her club football for the Newcastle Jets in the A-League women’s competition and was also a member of the New Zealand U-17 squad who famously finished third at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2018™.
She’ll be eager to continue her fine international form in front of family and friends at home, as New Zealand close in on a FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ spot.
Betty Sam | Papua New Guinea
Age: 33
Position: Goalkeeper
One of two teams yet to concede in FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers alongside New Zealand, Papua New Guinea have goalkeeper Betty Sam to thank for their stellar rearguard effort through the campaign so far.
The veteran goalkeeper kept a clean sheet in all three of the Bilums victories during Round 2 as they topped Group B.
Sam was also part of the Papua New Guinea squad for their FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ qualifying campaign and started in their 2-0 defeat to Panama in their intercontinental play-off semi-final in Auckland.
Now three years later, Sam returns to the scene of that qualifying campaign as Papua New Guinea look to rewrite history again in search of their first appearance at a FIFA Women’s World Cup™.
Anaiyah Tu’ua
Age: 24
Position: Defender
Previously playing as a guard for the California Baptist University women’s basketball team, Anaiyah Tu’ua recently returned to football alongside her twin sister, and captained American Samoa during Round 2 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers campaign – after making her international debut last November.
Anaiyah is joined by twin sister Aaliyah in the national team, both of whom grew up together in California and have taken the step up to international level for the first time during American Samoa’s qualifying campaign.
The pair have settled in superbly under coach Amanda Cromwell, starting all five of American Samoa’s matches through the campaign together so far.
Anaiyah will be out to continue American Samoa’s fairytale run during Round 3 in New Zealand, as they enter uncharted territory in World Cup qualifying and OFC competition in pursuit of a maiden global finals appearance.
Sofi Diyalowai
Age: 32
Position: Midfielder
A stalwart for the Fijian Kulas in recent years, Sofi Diyalowai lit up Round 2 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers with three goals – including the winner against Vanuatu, and two against New Caledonia.
Diyalowai made her international debut for Fiji in 2018 and is appearing in her third FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification campaign, having finished runners-up in each of the previous two against New Zealand in 2018, and Papua New Guinea in 2022.
The 32-year-old plays her club football for Labasa, appearing at both the 2023 and 2024 editions of the OFC Women’s Champions League.
Fiji will have to spur an upset to get past New Zealand in the semi-finals, but Diyalowai will be eager to get revenge for previous defeats at the final qualification stage this time around.
PAC – CRICKET: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Samoan under-19 girls humble PNG select-side
PORT MORESBY, 08 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The early arrival of the Samoan Under-19 women’s cricket team to Port Moresby for the ICC T20 World Cup regional qualifier also gave the hosts ample opportunity to schedule a match against the PNG trial team at the Amini Park last Saturday.
The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific (EAP) Qualifier will started in Port Moresby Wednesday through to 13 April.
This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening relationships between Cricket PNG, local cricket associations, and club-level competitions, while reinforcing pathways for player development and support across the code.
PomCA president James Maha welcomed the opportunity, describing it as a historic moment for club cricket in the nation’s capital.
“This is a first-of-its-kind opportunity for PomCA cricket clubs to showcase their cricket talents against an international team. We thank Cricket PNG for this opportunity,” he said.
Meanwhile, PomCA secretary Hebou Ovia confirmed that with oversight from Cricket PNG, the trial match was managed, conducted, and officiated by PomCA, including umpires and scorers.
The PNG trial team featured U19 female players selected from nine clubs across 14 divisions within the Port Moresby Cricket Association, highlighting the depth of emerging talent within the local competition.
Samoa U19 posted a strong total of 155 for 5 in their 20 overs and went on to beat the PNG (PomCA) select side, who finished on 58 for 9 from their 20 overs.
The match also gave young PNG female players valuable experience time, testing their skills against a young international side….PACNEWS
PNG – PARA ATHLETE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Inspiration drawn from a para-athlete champion, Chimbu mourns
PORT MORESBY, 09 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)–Vero Nime was more than a para-athlete; she was Papua New Guinea’s pioneering force in disability sports, shattering barriers with grit and grace.
Born in Kundiawa, Chimbu, the shot putter-turned-table tennis star, left an indelible mark on the nation’s sporting landscape before her tragic passing recently.
Vero’s grieving mum, Susan, said her daughter’s journey began on the athletics field, where she honed her power and precision.
She quickly rose to prominence, competing at the highest levels in PNG and abroad.
Susan said Vero’s medal haul included a silver in shot put at the 2015 Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea, marking an early triumph on home soil.
Transitioning seamlessly to para-table tennis, Vero dominated regional play. At the 2017 Oceania Para Championships in Fiji, she clinched silver in singles and bronze in doubles, showcasing her adaptability and fierce competitiveness.
Her crowning moment came at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia’s Gold Coast.
As PNG’s first-ever para-athlete flag bearer, Vero carried the nation’s hopes into the women’s TT6-10 table tennis event. Facing elite global competitors, she competed with unyielding spirit, inspiring a generation of athletes with disabilities back home.
“Vero didn’t just play; she pioneered,” was what a fellow Simbu athlete who trained alongside her described Vero of her prowess, the mother said.
“Her determination showed PNG that barriers are meant to be broken,” she said. “Though her competitive career faced challenges, Vero’s legacy endures. She opened doors for para-sports in PNG, advocating for better training facilities and inclusion.”
As Chimbu mourns her loss, her story reminds us: true champions lift others as they rise…PACNEWS
PNG – GOLF: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
PNG Open crowns golf’s rising stars
PORT MORESBY, 09 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The Royal Port Moresby Golf Club came alive over the Easter-long weekend as the 2026 PNG Open Amateur Golf Championship brought together the nation’s finest talents for four days of competitive play.
Golfers from across Papua New Guinea showcased skill, resilience, and sportsmanship in one of the country’s premier amateur tournaments, starting last Friday through to Monday.
In the marquee 72 Holes amateur overall gross category, Soti Dinki emerged as the men’s champion with a score of 286, while Wenchton Yakapus finished runner-up on 295. The women’s division produced a thrilling playoff, with Margaret Lavaki edging out Natalie Mok after both were tied on 319.
Kisolel Posanau, Ellen Monagi and Philomena Nawara filling out their score sheets during last day of the PNG Open Amateur Championship on Monday. Monagi bagged the women’s 72-hole overall title.
The juniors also made their mark, with Joseph David (334) and Shekinah Ling (375) claiming top honours in the male and female overall gross divisions respectively. Ling further impressed by winning the novelty prize for nearest the pin on the final round’s 2nd hole.
In the nett divisions, Manu Umba (268) and Ellen Monagi (259) secured the men’s and women’s amateur titles, while Iso Gawi (277) and Zuriel Monagi (319) led the junior categories. The 36 Holes contests highlighted depth across age groups: Morgan Annato and Phyonna Silikara topped the amateur gross, Jackson Bob and Rosalind Taufa won in the senior division, and Dominic Beange and Lama Monagi claimed veteran honours.
Nett winners included Pastor John Kui (senior) and Lawrence Siaw (veteran), with strong performances across the board.
The championship also celebrated community spirit, with players travelling into the capital from all over PNG around the country. Among the youngest competitors was Jabez Ireng from Madang, who finished runner-up in the Junior Nett division. …. PACNEWS
PAC – CRICKET: ICC PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
ICC announces schedule for upcoming East Asia-Pacific Qualifiers
PORT MORESBY, 09 APRIL 202(ICC)—The International Cricket Council (ICC)has announced the East Asia-Pacific schedule and qualification pathway for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028.
As cricket continues its rapid growth throughout the EAP region with more Members participating than ever before, these pathway tournaments will provide nations with a crucial opportunity to compete for the ultimate prize and move one step closer to securing a spot at an ICC World Cup event.
From 8 April, the action in the region commences with the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier, which will take place from 8-13 April, staged in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The hosts will welcome Fiji, Indonesia, Samoa and Vanuatu.
The format will be a single round-robin, where the winning team will qualify for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2027 in Bangladesh and Nepal. The event will be the first time that Vanuatu have played in an ICC U19 Women’s Pathway Event.
Cricket PNG Chairman, Michael Harrison, said: “This is an exciting tournament for Cricket PNG as we show once again that PNG can host international events to the exacting requirements of the ICC.”
Japan will stage the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in May. This will be the largest East Asia-Pacific Qualifier tournament ever hosted, with nine teams competing across two prefectures. Sano International Cricket Ground and Kōrogi Sports Park in Nisshin City will be used across the tournament, with Nisshin City to stage its first ever international match prior to it being used as the venue for the Asian Games in September 2026.
Hosts Japan will be joined by the Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, thePhilippines, the Republic of Korea, Samoa and Vanuatu, as they each look to move one step closer to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028.
The tournament will take place in two stages: a Group Stage from 8-10 May, followed by a Super Six Stage from 12-18 May. Teams are split into three groups of three, and the top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage. At the end of the Super Six, the top teams will earn their place in the next stage as they look to qualify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028 in Australia and New Zealand.
Chief Operations Officer at Japan Cricket Association, Alan Curr, said “This is an extraordinary opportunity for Japan to show our capacity to host pathway events for the EAP Region across multiple venues.”
“We will be stretched like no time ever before but are confident we can deliver an event that will showcase the best of the EAP region as well as create excitement for cricket at the Asian Games later this year.” …. PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Wallaroos ready to begin World Cup push against world class Canada
SYDNEY, 09 APRIL 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Wallaroos winger Desiree Miller is hoping a strong performance on Sunday (AEST) against Canada can fuel their push towards competing with the top nations in the world.
The Australians will head into their Pacific Four opener looking for their maiden win over the World Cup finalists after two heavy defeats in 2025.
Canada defeated them 45-7 in last year’s series, before replicating their effort almost identically in a 46-5 victory to knock Australia out in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Miller was the lone Australian try-scorer on that day in Bristol, using the motivation from that game as they look to end their eight games without a win against the Canadians.
“It’s always a piece of motivation that we need to use to be better. We want to be the top teams and some of those results were pretty crushing last year, particularly in that quarterfinal,” Miller told reporters.
“That fuels my fire and I’m sure it fuels a lot of the other girls’ fire to go out on the weekend and produce a better result than what we did previously.
“…I had the strong belief that they could have been in England in that final if there was a team to do it with them, it’d be them. So it’s going to be a bit of a challenge for us this week, but I still have faith in us.”
It comes as the Wallaroos begin the build towards the home World Cup in 2029, already locked in to face top sides New Zealand and England as part of their expanded Test calendar.
“I don’t think we’ve spoken about it collectively as a group or sat down, but I’ve had conversations with multiple people and we’re already so excited for it, but we know that there’s a job to do in the four years leading up,” Miller said.
The outside back will reach the 25-cap mark for the Wallaroos with selection on Sunday, continuing her journey after a steady rise in Rugby Union.
“It’s my fourth year with the Wallaroos, and I think that’s officially longer in this space than it has been since I started playing rugby, so it’s pretty surreal and definitely a lot of growth on this side of that,” she reflects.
“I still think my debut was the other week, and it’s just been a whirlwind since then. I think it’s really special, particularly in the Wallaroo space, hitting 25 caps is such a milestone compared to teams like England who have over 100 caps, and that’s the milestone they celebrate.
“I think reflecting back, my debut was in 2023, and the fact that I’ve hit 25, or about in line to hopefully this week, it just shows how far the game’s come.”…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Grealy, Force ready to unleash ‘new toy’ Lomax after false start
LAUTOKA, 09 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)–Western Force fullback Mac Grealy is just as excited as everyone else to see Zac Lomax’s Super Rugby debut as he prepares for a baptism of fire against the Fijian Drua in Lautoka.
Lomax has once again been named on the bench on Saturday, missing his debut due to hamstring tightness.
Coach Simon Cron resisted the temptation to start the former NSW and Australian rugby league international after Darby Lancaster’s ankle injury, shifting George Bridge to the wing and elevating Hamish Stewart to the starting side.
Grealy, who just re-signed for two further years at the Force, believes Lomax will make a seamless transition when called upon.
“I think it’s exciting for all of us… It’s like having a new toy as a kid, you know, getting to use it and sort of hopefully put him in some good spots,” he said on Tuesday.
“He’s looking real sharp and has definitely put himself in the mix but it was pretty devastating for me last week. He’s certainly put in the work since he’s come in and I know he had a lot of family coming up so to be ruled out was tough, but he’s handled like an absolute professional and that’s how he’s handled things since he’s come in.”
Lomax is joined in the team by returning skipper Jeremy Williams, who has cleared HIA protocols and replaces Darcy Swain, who has been struck down by illness, while Sef Fa’agase comes in for Tom Robertson (HIA).
For Grealy, the trip to Lautoka represents a further chance to cement his spot in the Force’s backline long-term after a brilliant return against the Queensland Reds.
Against his old side, Grealy was one of the standouts in the 42-19 win, having missed their last two games.
With a host of competition for outside back spots, the 24-year-old had his eyes set on fullback after initially being seen as a winger by the Reds.
“I just love being able to get high involvement, try and use my work rate. I love the challenge of backfield positioning and I do think I have an ability to read the game quite well so those things are what I enjoy about it and I’ve certainly been learning a lot over the last couple of years,” Grealy said.
“It’s obviously a bit different at Super Rugby level but I think [the] difference in the wing position, you obviously got some athletes ther, probably a bit more athletic than I am so I think when I play wing, I probably always felt I played more like a fullback when I’m wing, trying to get extra involvements and use my swing a lot.
“Fullback for me [is my preferred position], just personally love being at the back and love kick returns, get to light up a bit.”
FORCE (1-15): Sef Fa’agase, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Misinale Epenisa, Franco Molina, Jeremy Williams (c), Nick Champion de Crespigny, Jack Daly, Vaiolini Ekuasi, Henry Robertson, Ben Donaldson, Dylan Pietsch, Bayley Kuenzle, Hamish Stewart, George Bridge, Mac Grealy
Replacements: Nic Dolly, Marley Pearce, Harry Johnson-Holmes, Lopeti Faifua, Will Harris, Agustin Moyano, Kurtley Beale, Zac Lomax….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Thu 09 Apr 2026
Patient Brumbies handed double Wallaby boost as Alaalatoa, Lonergan cleared for Highlanders clash
DUNEDI, 09 APRIL 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—A measured approach around the returns of ACT Brumbies star front-rowers Allan Alaalatoa and Lachlan Lonergan is hoping to deliver dividends ahead of Friday’s clash with the Highlanders in Dunedin.
The Wallabies pair will play for the first time in 2026 after Alaalatoa and Lonergan overcame back and knee issues respectively.
The return of Alaalatoa is especially significant, as he was left in limbo with a back issue that ruled him out right before the start of the season.
It comes off the back of a thumb injury to Rhys van Nek, leaving Darcy Breen to carry the heavy load.
Larkham admits that while they could’ve rushed him back before the bye, it was universally agreed to give the veteran Wallaby the extra time to ensure his full fitness.
“He’s more than ready, Al. Probably itching to get out there before the bye, but we held him back a little bit there….He’s one of those guys, a little bit like James Slipper and some of the other senior players who really want to be a part of the team every single week but I think holding him back has probably been a little bit easier than previous years with Al,” Larkham explained.
“I think he learned some lessons just in terms of where his body is at and how to manage a longer season, knowing that it comes out of Super Rugby and then hopefully gets picked for the Wallabies and he’s got a long season ahead there as well.
“I think he’s certainly learned a lot over the last 12, maybe 18 months, in terms of not overloading himself by putting himself into every single game.”
Lonergan’s inclusion comes via the bench and at a perfect time, with brother Ryan preparing for his 100th game in Super Rugby.
The younger of the Lonergan brothers damaged his ACL during their British & Irish Lions clash in Canberra.
“Coming out of the bye gave us a little bit more time to find some combination there on the training park. He’s certainly someone who has been training really well. I think his performances for both the [Brumby] Runners and [Tuggeranong] Vikings were where they needed to be,” Larkham insists.
“[Ryan’s 100th] certainly not the reason for selection, but it’ll be good for them to go out there and enjoy the milestone together.”
Wallabies fullback Tom Wright remains on the sidelines, potentially returning for next week’s clash with the Fijian Drua.
“We’ll see how he goes next week. His rehab is going really well. He has been training with us now for a little bit like Al,” Larkham added.
“He’s been training with us for about a month but a slightly different injury compared to Al. Just got to make sure that he’s fully confident before he gets back out there on the field.”
Further changes sees Nick Frost re-gain his spot in the starting side, replacing Cadeyrn Neville.
BRUMBIES (1-15): James Slipper, Billy Pollard, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, Lachlan Shaw, Rob Valetini, Rory Scott, Charlie Cale, Ryan Lonergan (c), Declan Meredith, Corey Toole, David Feliuai, Kadin Pritchard, Ollie Sapsford, Andy Muirhead
Replacements: Lachlan Lonergan, Blake Schoupp, Darcy Breen, Toby Macpherson, Luke Reimer, Klayton Thorn, Tane Edmed, Hudson Creighton…PACNEWS
