In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Fiji set to compete for global rugby supremacy as Nations Championship Trophy is unveiled
2. RUGBY — Bears coach energised by Chiefs’ NRL journey
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — PNG Hunters open recruitment
4. NETBALL — Fiji Pearls hopefuls face tough selection test
5. TAEKWONDO — PNG taekwondo team set for Australia Open challenge
6. FOOTBALL — OFC Women’s Champions League Team Profile: Drehu Atletico Club (New Caledonia)
7. FOOTBALL — Fiji FA mourns death of senior executive
8. RUGBY — No doubt about it: Chiefs’ Aussie gets Super final shot
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — Very proud’: grieving Tino backed to honour late dad
10. FOOTBALL — New Zealand mark FIFA World Cup return with thrilling 2-2 draw against Iran
FIJI – RUGBY: FRU PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
Fiji set to compete for global rugby supremacy as Nations Championship Trophy is unveiled
SUVA, 17 JUNE 2026 (FRU)— Fiji’s place among the world’s rugby elite has been reinforced with the unveiling of the inaugural Nations Championship Trophy, as the Flying Fijians prepare to take on the strongest rugby nations on the planet in a groundbreaking new international competition beginning next month.
The newly revealed Nations Championship Trophy will be contested by 12 of the world’s leading rugby nations, including Fiji, which joins Southern Hemisphere powerhouses Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina, alongside Japan, in a historic tournament designed to determine the dominant force in world rugby.
Standing 67cm tall and weighing 15kg, the silver and gold-plated trophy represents the pinnacle of international rugby achievement and will be awarded to the inaugural Nations Championship winner at the Finals Weekend in London later this year.
For Fiji, participation in the Nations Championship marks another significant milestone in the nation’s rugby journey, providing the Flying Fijians with a consistent platform to compete against the best teams from the Northern Hemisphere, including England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales.
The innovative competition format will see Fiji and its Southern Hemisphere counterparts face teams from the Six Nations in a series of high stakes matches across the traditional July and November international windows. Every match will contribute to overall standings, with teams battling for qualification to the Nations Championship Finals Weekend.
The trophy’s design reflects the global nature of the competition, featuring a gold-plated globe at its centre and distinctive handles symbolizing the rivalry between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The championship aims to bring together the world’s leading rugby nations in pursuit of global supremacy while creating new opportunities for growth and competition across the sport.
SANZAAR Chief Executive Officer Brendan Morris said anticipation continues to build ahead of the inaugural tournament.
“The waiting is almost over and the anticipation for the inaugural Nations Championship continues to build, and the unveiling of the new Trophy signals that kick-off is not far away,” Morris said.
“The twelve best teams in world rugby will battle it out for the overall title of Nations Championship champion, while uniquely all teams will determine, through match results in July and November and the Finals Weekend, which hemisphere is dominant in the world of rugby.”
Fiji’s inclusion alongside rugby’s traditional powerhouses underscores the Flying Fijians’ growing reputation on the international stage and provides local fans with the opportunity to see their national team compete in a tournament expected to become one of the sport’s premier global events.
The Nations Championship has been created through a landmark partnership between Six Nations Rugby and SANZAAR and will be held every two years outside Rugby World Cup and British & Irish Lions Tour years.
The tournament kicks off on 4 July, with the Flying Fijians aiming to make history by becoming the inaugural Nations Championship winners and etching Fiji’s name onto the trophy for the first time…..PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
Bears coach energised by Chiefs’ NRL journey
PORT MORESBY, 17 JUNE 2026 (THENATIONAL)—Burleigh Bears head coach Luke Burt says he is thrilled to be part of the PNG Chiefs project, believing the club is laying solid foundations ahead of its planned entry into the NRL in 2028.
Speaking in Port Moresby after Burleigh’s 22-12 win over the SP PNG Hunters in Round 13 of the Hostplus Cup, Burt revealed he has already begun discussions about the Chiefs’ long-term direction.
His excitement grew after conversations with Chiefs general manager (football) Michael Chammas, describing the opportunity as “something special”.
“I got off the phone like a little kid. I was that excited,” Burt said.
The incoming Chiefs assistant coach said he is eager to help shape the club’s future and has been in regular contact with head coach Willie Peters, currently guiding Hull KR in England’s Betfred Super League.
Burt noted that both share similar philosophies around culture, standards, and building a winning environment.
He believes the groundwork being laid now will be crucial in preparing the Chiefs for life in the NRL. Burt also praised the club’s early player signings, calling them quality recruits who demonstrate strong intent and will help form a competitive squad.
Confident in the direction being taken, Burt said the work underway gives him assurance that PNG will be ready when the team officially joins the competition in 2028…..PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
PNG Hunters open recruitment
PORT MORESBY, 17 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The PNG Hunters have opened their doors to players from rival Hostplus Cup clubs, signalling a broader recruitment drive as the team looks to strengthen its ranks.
Chief executive officer Scott Barker confirmed the club is exploring new player acquisition initiatives, provided they comply with Queensland Rugby League competition rules and salary cap restrictions.
He noted that player movement between Hostplus Cup clubs is already common practice, and the Hunters should benefit from the same system.
Barker also revealed ongoing discussions with the PNG Chiefs, aimed at building a stronger player pathway leading into the Chiefs’ historic NRL debut in 2028.
“We’re the pathway and for a long period of time we’ve been at the top of that pathway,” Barker said. “The Chiefs are coming in and they become the top of that pathway, so we want to work closely with them and make sure players are ready for opportunities in 2028.”
According to Barker, the Hunters’ role now extends beyond competing in the Hostplus Cup. The club is tasked with developing talent capable of progressing into the Chiefs’ top 30 squad or wider 36-man roster.
When asked whether experienced Hostplus Cup players could be recruited to guide younger talent and strengthen the current campaign, Barker was clear: “Absolutely. If a player becomes available and we can fit them inside the salary cap, then it’s possible.”
However, he said recruitment decisions are complex, with strict rules governing salary limits, player payments, travel allowances, and competition regulations.
Despite these challenges, Barker stressed that the Hunters remain open to players who view the club as a genuine opportunity, especially with the Chiefs project now a reality.
“If we can make it work and players want to come to the Hunters for another opportunity, absolutely we can do that,” he added….PACNEWS
FIJI – NETBALL: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
Fiji Pearls hopefuls face tough selection test
SUVA, 17 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Players from across the country are battling for limited spots in the Fiji Pearls squad.
More than 90 players trialed for a place as selectors assess skill and fitness ahead of the Four Nations Spirit Series in Sydney, Australia, from 8–11 July.
The Fiji Pearls held their first trial session on Saturday at the FNU Gymnasium, with invited trialists vying for selection under newly appointed head coach Michelle Parsons.
Parsons told SUNsports the session marked the beginning of a busy international schedule, with four overseas campaigns lined up for the national side this year.
“We’ve got July in Australia against the Black Swans, Singapore and Papua New Guinea,” she said.
The team will also compete in an invitational tournament in August, while overseas-based players are expected to join trials on July 18 against a locally selected side.
Focus will then turn to the Netball World Cup qualifiers in September before the local squad wraps up the year at the Pacific Aus Challenge in Queensland in November.
Parsons said the current trialists were identified through selection trials held around the country in April.
“We are hoping to select a squad that will represent Fiji at the Four Nations Spirit Series in Sydney,” she said.
Preparation for the trials began months ago, with an extended Pearls squad taking part in strength and conditioning programmes from December.
“There was an extended Pearls squad that came together in December, and we were doing some strength and conditioning work and training. I was also sending through session plans while I was away. Up until now, the girls have been working with their clubs and schools to get ready for this,” Parsons said.
With competition for places intensifying, Parsons said selectors were looking beyond basic skills and placing players under pressure to assess their ability to perform in match-like conditions.
“We’re looking for consistent execution of fundamental skills. We’re also looking at conditioning, so we are putting them under pressure with repeated games over longer periods,” she said.
“I really want to see the ability to accelerate, decelerate and change direction quickly while maintaining stability.”
Selectors are also monitoring passing and receiving skills, court awareness, decision-making and how well players combine with teammates.
“I guess the other thing we’re looking for is coachability and how well they work with their teammates because we’ve got a very short timeframe to be ready,” Parsons said.
“I need to know that these girls can adapt quickly to instruction. So, there’s a lot for the selectors to think about.”…PACNEWS
PNG – TAEKWONDO: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
PNG taekwondo team set for Australia Open challenge
PORT MORESBY, 17 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—A total of 12 Taekwondo Athletes will be representing Papua New Guinea and compete at the Australian Open Championships this week (June 20-21) at the Gold Coast in Australia.
The team consisting of two cadets, four juniors and six seniors will compete against some of the best fighters from around the world.
Coach and trainer Jonathan Paschalis said the athletes were selected based on their experience, commitment and participation in national and international competitions.
“The athletes have been training consistently with their clubs and have competed in national and international tournaments,” Paschalis said. “Their preparations started earlier this year before the Oceania Championships in Sydney and have continued up until now.”
He said the Australian Open provides an important pathway for the development of elite athletes, with competitors from countries such as Russia, Canada and European nations expected to take part.
“This is a high-level competition. It helps us identify athletes who are suitable for future events such as the Olympic Games and the Pacific Games in Tahiti,” he said.
“It also allows our athletes to compete against top international fighters and understand their strengths and weaknesses.”
The team were selected from Karanas Taekwondo Club and NISTA Taekwondo Club. A coach and a team manager from NISTA will also accompany the athletes.
Paschalis said the coaching staff expects strong performances from all divisions.
“We are aiming for our senior athletes to reach the finals and hopefully secure a gold medal. We also expect strong performances from the juniors and cadets,” he said.
He said PNG’s participation at the Australian Open in 2023 provided valuable lessons for athlete development and preparations for major international competitions.
Meanwhile, PNG World Taekwondo Federation president and Oceania Taekwondo Union vice-president John Cholai said funding remains one of the biggest challenges facing the sport.
He said athletes usually compete at regional championships first in the Southern, Momase, Highlands and New Guinea Islands regions before progressing to national championships.
He stressed that this is done to make sure elite athletes are identified for international competitions.
“The pathways are already there, but funding constraints make it difficult to run regional competitions and send athletes overseas,” Cholai said…..PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
OFC Women’s Champions League Team Profile: Drehu Atletico Club (New Caledonia)
NOUMEA, 17 JUNE 2026 (OFC)—New Caledonian club Drehu Athletico Club will be looking to follow in the footsteps of compatriots and inaugural OFC Women’s Champions League winners AS Academy Féminine when they touch down in the Solomon Islands for the fourth edition of the tournament.
AS Academy Fémade history by winning the very-first staging of the OFC Women’s Champions League in 2023 in Port Moresby, something fellow New Caledonian club Drehu Athletico club are taking inspiration from ahead of their 2026 campaign in Honiara.
“We want to become the second New Caledonian team to achieve the challenge of winning the OFC Women’s Champions League after AS Academy,” says Drehu Athletico Club head coach Leon Waitronyie.
“Unlike they did, however, we have the New Zealand powerhouse (Auckland United) standing in our way.”
Drehu have been drawn alongside the two-time defending champions Auckland United in Group B, a group which only features three teams due to the withdrawal of AS Pirae from Tahiti, and also includes qualifying winners Puaikura FC from the Cook Islands.
Waitronyie is also the coach of the New Caledonia U-20 women’s national team who will participate in a FIFA women’s event for the first time at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland later this year. He also recently selected and coached the senior national team during their FIFA Series campaign in Thailand in March.
The domestic women’s league in New Caledonia started late for Drehu Athletico Club on the 16th of May, just over a month ago, but Waitronyie has stated his side’s goal remains to win the OFC Women’s Champions League.
History
Drehu Athletico Club will be making their debut at the OFC Women’s Champions League this year.
No club from New Caledonia was represented at last year’s edition, whilst AS Academy previously competed in 2023 and 2024, winning the inaugural staging of the tournament in 2023.
Squad
The squad’s preparation for the OFC Women’s Champions League has been difficult with 40% of the players based on Lifou in the Loyalty Islands, and the remaining 60% based in Noumea.
Unsurprisingly, Waitronyie’s squad features a core of players who will travel to Poland for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. As well as a shot at continental silverware, the OFC Women’s Champions League also serves as preparation for the global event for some of the Drehu players.
In fact, six of the 23-strong squad were called up for the senior national team’s FIFA Series campaign, and all are eligible to compete for the U-20s on the global stage at the end of the year.
Player to Watch
17-year-old Kané Dralu is one of those set to feature for New Caledonia at FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026 and is one of the stars of the nation’s talented crop of young female players.
She’ll be key for Drehu Athletico Club up front during their OFC Women’s Champions League campaign and has previously starred at OFC competition before for New Caledonia at U-16 level.
Dralu also made her senior international debut for New Caledonia during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania Qualifiers, making an instant impression with a goal in a 2-1 win over Vanuatu….PACNEWS
FIJI – FOOTBALL: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
Fiji FA mourns death of senior executive
SUVA, 17 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The country’s football fraternity is mourning the death of former Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) vice-president and National League Board secretary Jainendra Sukhu.
Sukhu dedicated more than a decade of service to Fiji FA, holding several key administrative positions, including competitions manager, acting chief executive officer, Futsal commission secretary, Futsal chairman and Fiji FA Southern vice-president.
Throughout his tenure, he played an important role in the administration and development of football and futsal in the country, contributing significantly to organising national competitions and to the growth of the game at all levels.
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel paid tribute to Sukhu’s invaluable contribution to football in the country.
“Jainendra was a committed and passionate football administrator who served Fiji football with dedication, professionalism and integrity,” Patel told Fiji FA Media.
“Over the years, he held several important positions within Fiji Football and always worked tirelessly for the betterment of the game.
“His contribution to football administration, competition management and futsal development helped shape many of the foundations that continue to benefit our sport today.
“He was highly respected by his colleagues and the football community, and his passing is a great loss to the Fiji football family.”
Patel said on behalf of Fiji FA, he extends their deepest condolences to Suku’s wife, children, family members and loved ones during this difficult time.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn the loss of a wonderful person and a dedicated servant of Fiji football.”
The Fiji FA expresses its heartfelt sympathies to the Sukhu family and joins the football community in honouring his years of service and contribution to the game…..PACNEWS
NZ – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
No doubt about it: Chiefs’ Aussie gets Super final shot
WELLINGTON, 17 JUNE 2026 (AAP)—Lalakai Foketi doesn’t think he’s earned a phone call from Joe Schmidt, but as the lone Australian left standing in the Super Rugby Pacific season hasn’t closed the door on a Wallabies return.
As the Wallabies gather in Sydney ahead of a 04 July Test against Ireland, the Chiefs centre will complete a rollercoaster 12 months when he runs out against the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday.
A World Cup player in 2023, Foketi was repeatedly injured – he avoided spinal damage but feared his career was over after a scary training injury in 2024 – and sapped of confidence when he eventually left the NSW Waratahs last season.
The messy exit prompted ongoing legal action, with the 31-year-old claiming he was wrongfully dismissed when his contract was terminated because he’d breached terms by travelling to Hamilton for promotional duties with his new club.
The nine-Test Wallaby, born in Hamilton before moving to NSW and getting his Super Rugby start at the Melbourne Rebels, battled two early-season injuries to earn a start and star in the Chiefs’ semi-final defeat of the Crusaders.
Add in the arrival of Foketi’s third child last Monday, and the confirmation of a move next season to Welsh club Ospreys next year, and it’s been busy fortnight.
“Crazy, but one I’ll never forget,” he told AAP on Tuesday ahead of the Chiefs’ fourth-straight grand final appearance.
“I wasn’t sure how it was going to go, coming over here. Now (the prospect of a premiership) it’s something at night that I think about.
“Far out, what a cool story to tell the kids when they’re older, to come back home and be part of a team that was able to win a Super Rugby grand final.”
For the first time in nine Super Rugby seasons there were no Australian teams in the semis.
Foketi came off the bench when his second-placed Chiefs knocked over the fifth-placed Queensland Reds in the qualifying final, while the ACT Brumbies were blown away by the first-placed Hurricanes.
“The detail, and from November to now, there is just no sense of doubt,” Foketi said, trying to explain the differences between the environments.
“Hone in on what you’re good at, bring that to the team and if everyone does that, we’ll go well. People see the crazy stuff players do out there, but that’s happening at training every day.
“They’re not leaving the club until they’re 100 per cent clear.
“If you’re not pulling your weight you’ll get found out and someone is going to call you out.”
Foketi produced three try assists, as many as any centre in a Super Rugby game in 26 years, to set the tone in a scintillating first half against the Crusaders.
But even with injury and availability concerns in the Wallabies midfield ranks he isn’t expecting a call from Schmidt.
“I haven’t spoken to Joe in a long time, but I put that on myself because I didn’t deserve the call,” he said.
“But who’s to say … if I stay injury free and things work out. It’s an exciting time for rugby and I just wish them all the best.”
Foketi said the Chiefs’ coaching staff had helped even as he battled early-season injuries.
“I feel a lot more confident in the way I can see the game and the coaches tell you to believe and trust in yourself and that’s been rewarding, because the last few years at the Tahs the confidence was a bit low,” he said.
“And on the weekend I just really enjoyed that arena, the big moment.”
Foketi had hoped to stay in Hamilton with the Chiefs, but is buzzing to return to Europe with his family after a brief stint with Top 14 side Bayonne more than a decade ago.
The Ospreys play in the United Rugby Championships and also added former Wallabies captain Liam Wright to a list that includes another Australian, lock Ryan Smith….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
Very proud’: grieving Tino backed to honour late dad
BRISBANE, 17 JUNE 2026 (AAP)—Queensland captain Cameron Munster insists prop Tino Fa’asuamaleaui will do his late father Fereti proud when he plays through heartache at the MCG.
Fa’asuamaleaui, 26, left camp on the Sunshine Coast late last week after his father’s passing to spend time with his family.
He re-joined teammates in Melbourne on Sunday night and trained with the side on Tuesday before playing in his 17th State of Origin match for Queensland on Wednesday night.
Last year, Munster’s father Steven died while the Maroons were in camp on the Sunshine Coast preparing for the decider in Sydney.
He left camp to grieve with his family before returning to play an inspirational and emotional role in a famous 24-12 win.
“We have obviously gone through some tough times me and Tino so I know exactly how he is feeling,” Munster said on Tuesday.
“When you lose your mentor or an idol or a role model of your family, especially your dad, it does take a heavy toll on you.
“I know Fereti will be very proud of the man and father he has become. We all talk about rugby league accolades, but the values Fereti put in Tino … I am sure he will be a very proud dad tomorrow night regardless of the result.
“We know what Tino is about and we are right behind him, as is every Queenslander, rugby league in general and NSW. Hopefully he can play the footy Fereti would be proud of.”
Last week while his father was still alive, Fa’asuamaleaui spoke candidly of how he was cherishing every moment with his dad.
“He is always in my heart, no matter what,” he said.
“I will always play for him.”
He has spoken on several occasions of “the butterfly effect” that followed Fereti’s decision to leave Samoa and play with the Sydney Roosters after being recruited by former Tricolours captain Arthur Beetson.
Fereti played lower grades with the Roosters before moving to Gympie in regional Queensland, where he had three children with wife Dianne – daughter Olivia and sons Iszac and Tino.
Tino rose through the junior system to become a star of the game, a premiership winner with Melbourne in 2020 and a Maroons and Australia regular.
“Where I am in my career now and playing for Queensland, it really all started when Arthur recruited my old man,” he said.
Fa’asuamaleaui, also the Gold Coast co-captain, had been travelling to see his father for an extended period during his illness.
He would travel to Gympie after Titans training and on his days off.
The tough forward was suffering in silence while still putting in each week for his club.
Maroons forward Kurt Capewell said Fa’asuamaleaui was the kind of person who “does anything for his teammates” which is one reason why he has decided to play in the match.
“I can’t imagine what it’s like to go through,” Capewell said.
“All we can do is get around him and be there for him,” he said…. PACNEWS
USA – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 17 Jun 2026
New Zealand mark FIFA World Cup return with thrilling 2-2 draw against Iran
LOS ANGELES, 17 JUNE 202 (OFC)—Elijah Just struck twice as the New Zealand All Whites marked their long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup after 16 years with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against the Islamic Republic of Iran in Los Angeles.
The Oceania representatives opened their Group G campaign against the world’s 20th ranked side and fully deserved the point, thjat leaves New Zealand unbeaten at a FIFA World Cup Finals since 1982.
Iran controlled possession early on, pressing high and forcing the All Whites deep into their own half. Captain Mehdi Taremi led the early threat, while New Zealand struggled to establish any sustained possession in the opening exchanges.
Despite that pressure, New Zealand struck first in the seventh minute, with 26-year-old Motherwell striker Just opening the scoring with a clinical finish. A direct ball forward released Chris Wood, who held up play before linking with Just, and the winger finished neatly into the right corner to hand New Zealand a shock early lead.
The goal shifted the momentum as New Zealand began to grow in confidence, with Sarpreet Singh and Wood providing a greater attacking spark. Wood soon came close to doubling the advantage, collecting the ball inside the area and shaping to shoot, only for an Iranian defender to make a timely intervention.
Iran continued to push and found their equaliser in the 31st minute. After another spell of attacking pressure, a loose ball inside the area fell to Ramin Rezaeian, who finished from close range to level the contest. The Iranians nearly went ahead soon after, when Ali Nemati headed home from a free-kick, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
New Zealand responded well after the break and restored their lead in the 54th minute through another Wood-and-Just combination, with Just finishing clinically for his second goal of the match. As in the first half, the All Whites absorbed sustained pressure before striking decisively on the counter-attack.
But the pattern soon repeated itself as Iran drew level once more. A precise pass released Rezaeian down the right, and his delivery into the box was met by Mohammad Mohebi, who guided the ball home to make it 2-2.
Iran finished the stronger of the sides piling pressure on the New Zealand defence and forcing Max Crocombe into a series of important saves, although clear-cut chances remained limited.
The result has delivered a significant moment for New Zealand, with Just becoming the first All Whites player to score twice in a FIFA World Cup match. It also marked a positive return for New Zealand to football’s biggest stage after a 16-year absence, with attention now turning to Egypt in the next Group G fixture next Monday in Vancouver.
The stats show New Zealand shaded possession with 51.7 percent and had eight shots on target to Iran’s four although the Asian powerhopuse shaded overall attempts 17 to 14…..PACNEWS
