In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Dates set for Pacific Nations Cup 2026
2. RUGBY — SAMOA 66-19 HONG KONG CHINA: Samoa run riot in Santiago try fest
3. RUGBY — TONGA 36-26 ZIMBABWE: Spirited Sabres impress, but Tonga prove too strong
4. RUGBY — Flying Fijians fall 39-24 to Wales despite dominant performance
5. RUGBY — FRU launches 2026 domestic rugby competitions
6. FOOTBALL — Tafea FC secure semi final spot
7. FOOTBALL — Puaikura FC secure historic semi-final place.
8. FOOTBALL — Hekari Women FC Ease into Semi-Finals
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — An equal future, PNG Academy stars secure tax-free deal
10. RUGBY LEAGUE — Salary concessions reshape NRL recruitment
11. RUGBY — New Zealand edge France in thriller to open Nations Championship
12. RUGBY — Wallabies fight falls short as Ireland hold on in Sydney thriller
13. RUGBY — Historic Reds defeat Waratahs for first time to lock in semi-finals berth
14. RUGBY — Western Force grab historic victory over Brumbies as they head to Super Rugby Women’s finals series
15. RUGBY — Springboks rock England with seven-try Nations Championship rout
16. RUGBY LEAGUE — Cobbo commits to deadly new role supporting community
PAC – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Dates set for Pacific Nations Cup 2026
TOKYO, 06 JULY 2026 (WORLD RUGBY)—World Rugby and Asahi Breweries Limited have announced that Asahi Super Dry will continue as the Title Partner and Official Beer of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026, which runs from 12-19 September in Japan.
The Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026 is the 17th edition of the tournament and will feature a revised format with Canada, defending champions Fiji and USA joining hosts Japan over two match days in Osaka and Tokyo. This evolution reflects the broader transformation of the international calendar with competitions aligned with the inaugural Nations Championship and World Rugby Nations Cup, providing cross-over opportunities for participating unions.
The four teams will meet in the form of semi-finals played at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka on 12 September with Fiji tackling Canada before Japan face USA. The action then moves to Tokyo for the third-place play-off and final at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium on 19 September, when Fiji will be hoping to claim a third successive title after beating Japan in the 2024 and 2025 finals.
With the participating nations building towards Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia, the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026 is an important step on that journey, providing competitive fixtures in a period before the quartet resume their World Rugby Nations Cup and Nations Championship campaigns in November.
Samoa and Tonga will compete within the inaugural edition of the World Rugby Nations Cup, played in July across the Americas, ensuring they are best placed to thrive on the road to Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 and beyond. While not featuring within this year’s Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup edition, both unions will continue to receive targeted high-performance support and funding from World Rugby.
This will be the third year that Asahi Super Dry serves as Title Partner for the tournament and continues the Asahi Group’s firm support of rugby globally, having become the first Asian company to sign a top-tier global partnership agreement with World Rugby for Rugby World Cup 2023 in France.
Michel Poussau, World Rugby Chief Revenue Officer, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Asahi Breweries and welcome Asahi Super Dry as the Title Partner of the Pacific Nations Cup 2026 for this new edition. The tournament plays an important role in the global rugby calendar, helping to drive competitiveness and grow the game across the Pacific region and beyond.
“Asahi’s continued commitment to rugby reflects our shared ambition to deliver exceptional experiences for fans, support the development of the game and celebrate the unique spirit and culture of rugby. With the tournament taking place in Japan, a key rugby market and home to Asahi, this partnership is the perfect collaboration, and we look forward to working together to make the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026 a memorable tournament.”
Takeshi Furusawa, Managing Corporate Officer, Head of Marketing, Asahi Breweries, Ltd, said: “We are honored to be able to continue serving as the title sponsor of the Pacific Nations Cup 2026. The final tournament held in Japan in 2024 generated tremendous excitement, and we look forward to even greater enthusiasm for the 2026 competition.
“We deeply share World Rugby’s core values, integrity, passion, solidarity, discipline, and respect, and have actively supported rugby as a Principal Partner of Rugby World Cup and as an official sponsor of the Japan national team.
“Through the stadiums of this tournament as well, we will enhance the spectator experience and contribute to the excitement of the event by offering rugby fans the distinctive taste, KARAKUCHI of Super Dry. Together with all the players and rugby fans around the world, we will continue to create ‘moments of excitement’ through Super Dry.”
Japan head coach Eddie Jones said: “The Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026 is an important tournament for Japan. It allows us to develop our talent versus the best of the Pacific. Hosting the tournament is a great honour and will entertain our fans with Cho-Soku Rugby.”
Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup 2026 schedule
All times local (GMT+9)
Saturday, 12 September
Semi-finals, Hanazono Rugby Stadium, Osaka
16:00 – Fiji v Canada
19:05 – Japan v USA
Saturday, 19 September
Finals day, Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium, Tokyo
16:00 – Third place play-off
19:05 – Final…PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
SAMOA 66-19 HONG KONG CHINA: Samoa run riot in Santiago try fest
SANTIAGO, 06 JULY 2026 (WORLD RUGBY)—One of the stories of this expanded Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 format is the first-time qualification of Hong Kong China, and thus their entry into the Nations Cup and a chance to play against a side qualified for Australia 2027, something they haven’t done since 2016.
This was always going to be a tough task for Logan Asplin’s men.
Within a minute, Manu Samoa had their first try and from then on they were unrelenting in their pursuit of the try-line. Quick hands and deadly breaks made it a tough day for the Hong Kong China defence, and the joy was seen on the Samoan faces as they scored try after try.
The highlight of the game was without doubt debutant Warren Solomona, who carved through defenders and scored two tries, one of notable class in the first half, and he was ecstatic. You could sense the childlike excitement when he burst past defenders, and he is going to be a threat for anyone playing Samoa.
That’s not to say Hong Kong China weren’t in it at all. Their first attack saw them rewarded with a penalty try, and despite being down 38-7 at half-time, they came out strong in the second half, scoring back-to-back tries. It showed a resilience and fight which won’t go unnoticed for other teams who face them.
For the last 20 minutes, Manu Samoa were masterful, capped off with some lovely footballing skills by Elisapeta Alofipo, who bagged a brace in the last few minutes.
It was an emphatic win for Manu Samoa in the end, but there is no doubt that Hong Kong China will be better for the experience. …PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
TONGA 36-26 ZIMBABWE: Spirited Sabres impress, but Tonga prove too strong
SANTIAGO, 06 JULY 2026 (WORLD RUGBY)—This Pool F encounter at RWC 2027 was the perfect beginning to this two-part saga which will conclude in Queensland next year.
The lively crowd probably couldn’t believe their eyes that after 23 minutes there was still no score.
Eventually a lovely looping pass from Patrick Pellegrini to Telusa Veainu broke the deadlock. It didn’t take long for Tonga to grab their second, loose-head Fatongia Paea diving over with a clever finish.
The Sables finally responded, and Matthew Mandioma finished it off from a maul.
Despite being reduced to 14 men, Fine Inisi showed great resilience, stretching out for the score and giving Tonga a healthy lead at half-time.
The second half belonged to one man, and that was 22-year-old Edward Sigauke, who dazzled the Denver crowd with his dancing feet. He first brilliantly set up Tino Mavesere after carving through the Tongan defence. Ten minutes later, after a brilliant dummy from Matthew Mandioma, Sigauke received the ball in space and from then only one outcome was inevitable.
In between those two tries, the man mountain of Godfrey Muzanargwo scored an exceptional try in the corner, and you began to feel there was a belief in Zimbabwe that they could pull off an opening day upset. A Patrick Pellegrini sin-bin further instilled that.
However, in the space of four minutes Tonga’s physicality up front proved too much, and they scored two tries to do enough to earn a hard-fought win. ….PACNEWS
UK – RUGBY: FRU PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Flying Fijians fall 39-24 to Wales despite dominant performance
CARDIFF, 06 JULY 2026 (FRU)—The Flying Fijians produced an enterprising attacking performance but were unable to convert their dominance into victory, falling 39-24 to Wales in an entertaining international Test at Principality Stadium on Saturday.
Locked at 10-10 at half-time, Fiji showed glimpses of the exciting brand of rugby that has become its trademark, controlling possession, territory and several key attacking statistics.
However, Wales proved clinical when opportunities presented themselves, scoring six tries to secure the win.
The Flying Fijians made the perfect start when number eight Pita-Gus Sowakula crossed in just the second minute, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula adding the conversion for an early 7-0 advantage.
Wales responded through flanker Jac Morgan, who crossed twice in the opening half, although both conversion attempts were unsuccessful. Armstrong-Ravula’s penalty goal ensured the teams went into the break level at 10-10.
Wales came out strongly after halftime, scoring two quick tries through Rhys Carre and Josh Adams to establish a 22-10 lead. Fiji refused to go away, with Elia Canakaivata crashing over before Selestino Ravutaumada finished a sweeping attacking movement just minutes later.
Armstrong-Ravula converted both tries to reduce the deficit to just three points at 25-22.
Despite Fiji’s resurgence, Wales maintained composure in the closing stages, adding further tries through Ryan Elias and Eddie James, while a penalty goal helped seal a 39-24 victory.
Although the scoreboard favoured Wales, the statistics painted a different picture of Fiji’s attacking dominance.
The Flying Fijians enjoyed 59 per cent possession and 56 per cent territory, carrying the ball 167 times compared to Wales’ 83 carries. Fiji gained an impressive 667 metres with ball in hand—more than double Wales’ 261 metres—while completing 182 passes and producing 32 offloads, highlighting their intent to keep the ball alive.
The host union also recorded 23 clean breaks and beat 42 defenders, compared with Wales’ four clean breaks and 14 defenders beaten, demonstrating Fiji’s ability to consistently challenge the Welsh defensive line.
However, Wales were more efficient in converting opportunities into points, finishing with six tries to Fiji’s three despite enjoying significantly less possession and territory.
Following the match, Head Coach Senirusi Seruvakula said discipline and unforced errors ultimately proved costly.
“We started well, but we gave away some silly mistakes and penalties, and that cost us the game.”
Seruvakula admitted Fiji were unable to capitalize on several promising attacking opportunities after their fast start.
“We felt we could build from that first try, but unfortunately we couldn’t finish some of the opportunities we created.”
The Flying Fijians also suffered an injury setback, with Seruvakula confirming that two players are expected to be sidelined for approximately six weeks. Despite the losses, he remains confident in the depth of the squad.
“There will be no excuses. That’s why we selected a squad of 32 players. Injuries create opportunities for others to step up. We have another big game next week, and our focus now shifts to preparing for that.”
The Flying Fijians now turn their attention to their second match of the Nations Championships; as they look to build on an encouraging attacking performance and improve…PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
FRU launches 2026 domestic rugby competitions
SUVA, 06 JULY 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The Fiji Rugby Union has officially launched its four premier domestic competitions, with sponsors reaffirming their commitment to developing grassroots rugby and creating pathways for future national representatives.
These includes the Skipper Cup, Subrails Marama, Vodafone Vanua and Royal Tea Ranadi competition.
The Vanua and Ranadi competitions kicks off next Saturday while the Skipper Cup and Marama will begin on 01 August.
Speaking at the launch on behalf of FRU, board director commercial Tevita Tuiloa thanked CJ Patel, Subrails and Vodafone for their continued commitment and support to these grassroots competitions.
“You are investing in communities, in young people, women, and men who aspire to wear the white jersey,” Tuiloa said.
He added these domestic competitions are the foundation of Fiji rugby and creates pathways for players.
Fiji Diary Limited manager supply chain Reshma Narayan said rugby inspired dreams, created opportunities, and united people.
“Every player who has proudly worn the Fiji jersey on the world stage began their journey here – in grassroots and provincial rugby,” Narayan said.
“The Skipper Cup and the Royal Tea Ranadi competition are where those journeys began. This is where raw talent is discovered, confidence is built and future leaders emerge.”
12 teams will be part of the Skipper Cup competition this year while 10 teams will feature for the Marama Cup.
Vodafone Vanua Cup will see 14 teams and 10 teams in the Royal tea Ranadi competition. …PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Tafea FC secure semi final spot
HONIARA, 06 JULY 2026 (OFC)—Tafea FC secured their place in the semi-finals of the OFC Women’s Champions League with an exhilarating 4-3 success over Ba Women FC in humid and sticky conditions at Honiara International Stadium.
The Vanuatu side were made to work exceedingly hard for progression though, having to come from 2-3 down at half-time and score four superb goals to shake off a Ba Women FC team that pushed them to their limit and beyond.
Needing just a point to qualify for the last four, Tafea FC got off to a flying start by taking an early lead. The Ba Women FC defence failed to sufficiently clear a cross and, after her original header had bounced back fortuitously into her path, Liyo Eramol lashed the loose ball high into the roof of the Ba Women FC net from the edge of the six-yard box.
Ba Women FC responded promptly and drew level midway through the first half. A long ball caused havoc in the Tafea FC rearguard and Elesi Tabunase pounced to break away and calmly slot her right-footed finish past goalkeeper Amelia Reddy.
Tafea FC regained the lead before the interval. A slide-rule pass freed Nettie Kalsau in the 37th minute and her square ball was swept imperiously into the net by Leimata Simon, her fourth goal of the tournament. And yet, incredibly, it was Ba Women FC who led at the break.
Ba Women FC Head Coach Charlene Viti had introduced substitute Narieta Leba a couple of minutes before half-time and the replacement had an instant impact slotting home for 2-2. Moments later, a chance was fashioned for Koleta Likuculacula, and she coolly finished to send the Fijians ahead in stoppage time.
In the second half Tafea went looking for the goal that would put them back into a qualifying position with Eramol and Simon causing all sorts of problems with their direct running, and willingness to shoot, and it was from a cut-back by the former that Kalsau hooked home from close range to make it 3-3.
Tafea had enjoyed the better of the opportunities throughout the match and, shortly after the cooling break, took the lead for the third time. A pinpoint corner from Jane Alatoa was met by a thumping header from Limas Erikan that gave Ba Women FC stopper Mereseini Waqali with no chance.
Ba Women FC knew they needed a brace of goals to progress, and they pushed everyone into attack in an attempt to turn the match on its head but were unable to make the inroads required and gallantly bowed out as Tafea FC marched on.
RESULT
Tafea FC 4 (Liyo ERAMOL 7′, Leimata SIMON 37′, Nettie KALSAU 64′, Limas ERIKAN 74′)
Ba Women FC 3 (Elesi TABUNASE 23′, Narieta LEBA 45′, Koleta LIKUCULACULA 45+4’….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Hekari Women FC Ease into Semi-Finals
HONIARA, 06 JULY 2026 (OFC)—Hekari Women FC claimed top spot in the Group A with a convincing 9-1 victory over the hometown Henderson Eels to seal their place in the OFC Women’s Champions League Semi-Finals and a fixture with Puaikura FC.
Hekari Women FC entered the fixture knowing that a win by six clear goals would send them to the top of the group heading into the last four, and they wasted no time in going about their task, rattling up the half-a-dozen they needed inside the opening forty-five minutes, after netting twice within the first three minutes.
It took just 61 seconds for Hekari to go in front, Hortance Kimit tapping into the empty net after Henderson Eels goalkeeper Betty Sade had denied her first attempt. Barely a minute later and it was two. The impressive Maria Veronika squared a pass to Phylis Pala and her shot squirmed under Sade and into the goal.
Veronika created the third with a pass across the six-yard box which Sewruwaia Laulaba stabbed home, before a corner was unfortunately turned into her own net by Anna Ellen as Hekari flexed their muscles in a dominating display. At the other end, the Eels did not unduly trouble the Hekari defence, Hekari goalkeeper Betty Sam largely unemployed.
The same could not be said of Sade who made several excellent stops but was unable to prevent Veronika from making it 5-0 after she was left unmarked near the penalty spot to slam home, the same player bringing the half-time tally to six when played through and finishing with a tidy tuck underneath the advancing goalkeeper.
Veronika wasn’t finished with her night’s work and was on hand to create the seventh seven minutes after the restart putting a pass on a plate for substitute Calista Maneo who could not miss from close in. And Veronika made the eighth as well, prodding a simple pass into the path of Maneo, who diverted the ball past Sade for her second of the contest.
Maneo saw a potential hat-trick chalked off as the Assistant Referee adjudged her header to be offside as the Eels struggled defensively, but they did tighten up in the second half and began to string together some sporadic attacking moments as they searched for a first goal of the competition.
They found it with minutes to spare. Nenny Elipas had struck a ninth for Hekari with six minutes to play, but the Eels had the final word. Edith Nari took aim from distance, and her long-range drive deceived the Hekari goalkeeper, the ball swerving past the custodian and into the net for a popular strike.
RESULT
Henderson Eels 1 (Edith NARI 88’)
Hekari Women FC 9 (Hortance KIMIT 2’, Phylis PALA 3’, Seruwaia LAULABA 24’, Anna ELLEN 29’ (og), Maria VERONIKA 30’, 40’, Calista MANEO 52’, 60’, Nenny ELIPAS 84’)
HT 0-6
SEMI-FINALS
Wednesday 7 July
National Stadium, Honiara
16:00 – Hekari Women v Puaikura FC
20:00 – Auckland United v Tafea FC….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Puaikura FC secure historic semi-final place.
HONIARA, 06 JULY 2026 (OFC)—Puaikura FC have produced a spirited comeback to secure a historic place in the semi-finals of OFC Women’s Champions League 2026 with a 2-2 draw against Drehu Athletico Club in Group B.
Victoria Fatiaki’s second-half equaliser proved enough to send the Cook Islands champions into the semi-finals on goal difference, making Puaikura the first club from the Cook Islands to reach the knockout stage of either the men’s or women’s OFC Champions League.
With defending champions Auckland United FC already through, the final semi-final place in Group B came down to the last fixture. Drehu needed all three points to advance, while a draw was enough for Puaikura to progress on goal difference.
Heavy rain made conditions difficult from the opening whistle, but Drehu settled quickest – pressing high and controlling possession as they looked determined to find the breakthrough. Kine Hmaen, Cina Kourevi and Kané Dralu combined well in attack, with Dralu’s pace causing problems down the right flank.
After knocking on the door for much of the first, the breakthrough came when a perfectly weighted pass released Kine Hmaen in behind the defence and after the keeper lost her footing, Hmaen kept her composure to slot home for a 1-0 lead.
Puaikura remained organised at the back and looked to strike on the counter through Primrose Savage, who was at the heart of most of their attacking moves. Their persistence paid off just before halftime when Savage whipped a free kick into the penalty area, feeding Ngamata Moekaa who powered a header into the net, and levelling the scores at 1-1.
Drehu wasted little time restoring their advantage after the restart, when Cina Kourevi’s long-range effort from the right slipped through the gloves of C-Jay Rimamotu, giving the New Caledonian side a 2-1 lead. Needing only an equaliser to book their place in the semi-finals, Puaikura responded with urgency and began to commit more players forward.
Their best chance fell to Victoria Fatiaki, who was played through on goal but could not take advantage. She would not miss a second time though, when another incisive through ball released Fatiaki in behind the defence, and the forward lifted her finish over the advancing goalkeeper to draw Puaikura level.
Drehu continued to press for a winner, stretching the Puaikura defence and looking to exploit the wide areas that had brought them success throughout the match. Korevi and Hmaen led the attacking charge, creating several dangerous opportunities with relentless pressure, but Puaikura’s defence stood firm to preserve the draw.
The result confirms Puaikura FC’s place in the semi-finals as Group B runners-up, a significant milestone for Cook Islands football. They’ll meet the winners of Group A in the last four.
Drehu Athletico Club: 2 (Kinë HMAEN 15′, Cina KOUREVI 48′)
Puaikura FC: 2 (Ngamata MOEKAA 43′, Victoria FATIAKI 72′)
HT: 1-1..PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
An equal future, PNG Academy stars secure tax-free deal
PORT MORESBY, 06 JULY 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The PNG Rugby Football League Academy brightest prospects and success stories – Gairo Voro, Finley Glare, and Morea Morea — will enjoy full tax-free incentives and other benefits while on their two-year fulltime development contracts with the PNG Chiefs from 2028.
Chiefs general manager of football Michael Chammas said the signing of Voro, Glare, and Morea is proof that the academy system is producing elite players capable of competing at the professional level.
Chammas confirmed that every player selected to represent the Chiefs will be treated equally, regardless of background.
“Any player with a PNG chance, regardless of where they come from, they’ll live with us, play with us, train with us, and everyone will be treated equally and fairly,” he said.
This philosophy extends to the club’s much-discussed tax-free incentive, which will apply to all players when the Chiefs enter the NRL in 2028. For the academy graduates, this means not only professional contracts but also financial benefits that recognise their commitment and talent.
The trio’s two-year development contracts are full-time deals, not trial arrangements.
Chammas highlighted that the Chiefs want them to arrive as genuine first-grade contenders rather than prospects.
“We made it clear to them that between now and when we start in 608 days’ time, there’s an opportunity there. This is a two-year development contract. It is full-time. It’s not a train-and-trial. They’re training with us,” he explained.
The club’s long-term goal is for all three to graduate into the Chiefs’ Top 30 squad. However, Chammas stressed that this promotion must be earned through consistent performance and growth.
“If they continue to develop at the rate they are developing, then we will upgrade them to Top 30. But that needs to be earned,” he said.
Chammas noted that the next 12 to 18 months will be crucial in shaping the players’ futures. Performances both at home and abroad will determine their standing when the Chiefs finalise their NRL roster.
For now, Glare and Morea remain linked with the London Broncos system, continuing their development in the Betfred Championship.
Chammas expressed hope that the Broncos secure promotion to the Super League, believing it would provide the ideal environment for the young PNG talents to test themselves at the highest level.
Voro’s immediate future is still under discussion with his management team, but Chammas confirmed the Chiefs are excited about what lies ahead for all three.
“We’re all excited about what the next 12 months brings for Finley, Morea, and Gairo,” he said.
The Chiefs view the academy network as a cornerstone of their long-term strategy…..PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Salary concessions reshape NRL recruitment
PORT MORESBY/PERTH, 06 JULY 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The National Rugby League’s expansion into Perth in Australia and Papua New Guinea has sparked fierce debate, not only about geography and culture but about economics.
At the heart of this debate lies the salary cap concessions granted to the Perth Bears and the PNG Chiefs. These financial levers are not mere technicalities; they are the engines that will drive recruitment strategies and, ultimately, determine the long term competitiveness of each club.
The Bears, set to enter the competition next year, have been granted up to AUD$500,000 (about K1.5 million) in salary cap relief for their first three seasons. This concession allows them to spread additional payments across their roster, with unlimited players eligible so long as the total remains under the cap. Sponsors can also top up contracts by 20 per cent outside the cap, giving Perth some flexibility in negotiations.
Yet, in the brutal marketplace of NRL talent, AUD$500,000(US$346 million) is a modest sum. It might secure one marquee player or allow the club to slightly sweeten deals for several mid-tier recruits. But it does not fundamentally alter the economics of recruitment.
Perth’s isolation compounds the challenge: players must weigh the lure of extra dollars against the reality of relocating to Western Australia, far from rugby league’s traditional heartlands.
Recruitment strategy for Perth will, therefore, hinge on developing local talent and building a culture that appeals to players beyond money.
The Bears will need to invest heavily in pathways, grassroots programmes, and community engagement to ensure a steady pipeline of talent. Their concessions buy time, but not dominance.
The Chiefs, entering in 2028, enjoy a far more potent advantage: tax free salaries.
An AUD$1.2 million (about K3.63 million) contract in PNG is worth the equivalent of AUD$2.2 million (US$1.5 million) gross in Australia. This means the Chiefs can offer deals that look ordinary on paper but deliver extraordinary take home pay. Already, stars like Jarome Luai and Alex Johnston have signed, attracted by the financial windfall.
This tax exemption transforms recruitment strategy. PNG can target elite players with offers that rival clubs simply cannot match under the same nominal cap.
The Chiefs’ challenge is not financial but logistical: convincing players to relocate to Port Moresby. Yet, for many, the financial incentive outweighs the drawbacks.
In the long term, PNG’s recruitment power could reshape the league. If the Chiefs consistently attract marquee talent, they may become perennial contenders, forcing rival clubs to rethink their strategies.
The NRL’s competitive balance, already delicate, could tilt dramatically.
The Bears and Chiefs embody two contrasting models of expansion.
*Perth Bears: Their competitiveness will depend on patience and development. With modest concessions, they must build a sustainable club culture, nurture local talent, and rely on smart recruitment rather than financial firepower. Success will be gradual, and their ceiling may be limited unless further concessions are granted.
*PNG Chiefs: Their competitiveness could be immediate and dramatic. Tax free salaries give them a recruitment edge that rivals cannot match. If they manage logistical challenges and create a supportive environment for players, they could quickly become a powerhouse. Yet, their reliance on financial advantage raises questions about fairness and sustainability.
For the NRL, these concessions are double edged swords.
Expansion requires incentives, but too much imbalance risks alienating existing clubs.
Coaches like Wayne Bennett have already warned of a “blow up” over PNG’s advantage. If the Chiefs dominate recruitment, rival clubs may demand equal concessions or structural reforms.
The league must balance the need to grow the game in new markets with the imperative of maintaining competitive integrity.
Perth’s modest relief may prove insufficient, while PNG’s tax free status may prove excessive.
The contrasting fortunes of Perth and PNG highlight the complexities of expansion. The Bears represent the traditional model: modest concessions, reliance on development, and a long road to competitiveness. The Chiefs represent a radical model: financial incentives so powerful they could reshape the league overnight.
In the end, recruitment strategies will define these clubs.
Perth must sell culture, opportunity, and community.
PNG can sell cash, stardom, and immediate success.
Both approaches have merit, but only one may deliver sustained competitiveness.
The NRL’s experiment with salary concessions is not just numbers; it is the future of the game.
If Perth struggles and PNG thrives, the league may face uncomfortable questions about fairness, balance, and the very nature of competition…..PACNEWS
NZ – RUGBY: AFP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
New Zealand edge France in thriller to open Nations Championship
CHRISTCHURCH, 06 JULY 2026 (AFP)—Cam Roigard and Will Jordan scored two tries each as New Zealand held on to edge an under-strength France 34-32 in a thriller in Christchurch on Saturday to open the inaugural Nations Championship.
It was the All Blacks’ first Test under new coach Dave Rennie and he saw France run his team close despite fielding a line-up without any players from top clubs Toulouse and Montpellier.
Fabien Galthie had his side start at a frantic tempo playing with great pace and accuracy in the opening exchanges.
Record French try scorer Damian Penaud took his total to 41 in just the second minute as he cantered over the line.
In the build-up, full-back Max Spring was hit high by Ruben Love, earning the fly-half a yellow card and crowning a horror opening two minutes for the Rennie era.
A man down, New Zealand started to find their feet and struck back in the eighth minute through wing Jordan, after captain Ardie Savea earned a turnover in a good position.
It was a rare success for New Zealand at the breakdown as France won quick ball and dealt well with any attempted All Blacks disruption, leaving the hosts scrambling on defence.
After Love’s return, New Zealand’s running game came to life as he and Damian McKenzie made forays into the French half.
Peter Lakai gave New Zealand the lead in the 21st minute, put through after a McKenzie break and a fine inside pass from Caleb Clarke.
A pair of French penalties for Maxime Lucu nudged his team in front until a Roigard snipe from the back of the ruck gave New Zealand a 19-13 lead at the break.
France started the faster team again in the second half as Antoine Hastoy scored in the 47th minute after a Theo Attissogbe basketball-style pass over three markers.
Roigard had his second try moments later, before Attissogbe struck for France after a Fabien Brau-Boirie try was disallowed for a knock-on.
Jordan scored to go joint second all time for the All Blacks on 47 Test tries, and for the first time New Zealand had breathing space at 34-25 with nine minutes to go.
But France struck back again, Matthieu Jalibert bundling over the line with two minutes remaining.
But New Zealand’s forwards retained possession form the restart to see out the clock and hang on for victory.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s newest wing, Fehi Fineanganofo, admitted he was so nervous ahead of his debut against France on Saturday that he vomited in the changing room.
Fineanganofo was on the All Blacks bench for their 34-32 win over France and came on for the final 11 minutes in place of left wing Caleb Clarke.
But that was only after he overcame a serious bout of stomach-churning nerves.
“I was sitting on the bench and nearly vomiting,” Fineanganofo said. “I was like, I’m not even on the field yet, I can’t imagine what it’ll be like when I am on the field.”
That was during the first half, as he watched New Zealand earn a 19-13 lead at the break.
The anticipation built during coach Dave Rennie’s team talk at the break, and then the cork popped.
‘At half-time, I was in the toilet, spewing,” he said. “I felt better after.”
The Hurricanes wing broke the single season try-scoring record in Super Rugby this year, with 17, to thrust himself into the All Blacks reckoning.
But he had already signed a contract to play for English club Newcastle from the end of November and New Zealanders playing overseas are ineligible to play for the All Blacks.
Fineanganofo’s agent is now working to extricate him from the contract with Newcastle to allow him the chance of playing for New Zealand at next year’s World Cup.
As of Saturday night there was no change in the contract situation, but the 23-year-old said family had helped him realise that he wanted to stay in New Zealand.
Fineanganofo held back tears as he talked to reporters with a homemade plastic “lolly necklace” draped over his shoulders after his debut.
“It’s kind of a Tongan or Polynesian thing just to celebrate achievement,” he said of the necklace, which was adorned with chocolates and sweets.
“Sadly I can’t have any of these because I’m watching my weight, so I’ll give them to the boys.
“All my family, parents, they couldn’t stop crying and I was just trying to keep it strong and not cry outside,” he added. “I’ll cry back in the changing room.”
Rennie will have a decision to make in the coming Tests against Italy and Ireland, with Fineanganofo showing flashes of his speed and agility, while Clarke had a mixed game as the starter.
Captain Ardie Savea laughed when told of Fineanganofo’s half-time bathroom stop, and said he had done his family proud.
“The guys that played their first Test match were outstanding,” Savea said.
“They came on, did their job and had a few good carries so I’m just really pleased for them and their families,” he said…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Wallabies fight falls short as Ireland hold on in Sydney thriller
SYDNEY, 06 JULY 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)–The Wallabies have been unable to convert a late winner as Ireland held on for a 33-31 win in a heartbreaking defeat in Sydney.
In front of a record crowd of 41,971 at Allianz Stadium, replacement Ben Donaldson twice had tough penalty chances from the sidelines to seal the game.
Watch every second of the 2026 Nations Championship live and on demand via Stan Sport.
The first miss came with nine minutes left as Ireland marched down the field to take the lead through prop Thomas Clarkson.
Donaldson then had a shot from 40 metres out on the sideline to win the match after the siren, with the effort fading to the right.
It makes it six wins in a row for the Irish over Australia as the Wallabies were quick to console the playmaker.
“We had two chances to close it out in the end, you know, sometimes they don’tcome off, but I was really pleased with how we started the game,” coach Joe Schmidt said.
“Right from the very start, getting that early try was important, but we know that they convert very well from any position they get inside the 22, so what we couldn’t do is what we did in the second half and give them so many opportunities to come into our 22.
“…We have to get better at taking those opportunities because you’ve got to work so hard to get them.”
The loss came after a blistering start from the hosts, with Rob Valetini and Carter Gordon instrumental in an early lead.
Gordon and Jock Campbell set up the opener after the Reds fullback showed great hands to pick the ball up from his laces and deliver to his winger.
Campbell then went himself for the five-pointer after instantly answering Cian Pendergast’s try.
Josh van der Flier got Ireland in front after smart hands from Dan Sheehan close to the line. But the speed and power of the Aussies caused plenty of trouble, with Valetini and Allan Alaalatoa impressive in setting up maiden Test tries for Josh Canham and Ryan Lonergan.
Canham capitalised on a Valetini break whilst Lonergan backed up Max Jorgensen’s intercept to give the Aussies a 24-12 lead, with their goal-kicking struggles proving costly.
Further chances to Jorgensen and the world-class Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii failed to stick as Ireland struck either side of the break for the lead.
Tate McDermott, who replaced Ryan Lonergan late in the first half, restored the Australian’s advantage as they held tough in defence.
Sheehan thought he’d crossed, but an obstruction by Rob Valetini chalked it off as Joe Schmidt’s side kept fighting.
The Wallabies had a chance to seal the win, with the decision to go for the tough sideline penalty to make it eight leading to an Irish counter attack opportunity.
The pressure ramped up as a wave of penalties left the Aussies down to 14, debutant Lachlan Shaw the man to pay the price for one too many inside their half.
It opened the space for the tighthead prop to cross, with Sam Prendergast nailing the conversion for the lead.
The Wallabies gave themselves a chance late to win it after drawing the penalty on the full-time siren.
However, Donaldson was unable to slot the win as it stayed right, sealing the win for Ireland.
Ireland 33 (Tries: C. Prendergast, van der Flier, Gibson-Park, Keenan, Clarkson; Cons: S. Prendergast 4/5) def Wallabies 31 (Tries: Pietsch, Campbell, Canham, Lonergan, McDermott; Cons: Gordon 3/5; Pens: Donaldson 0/2)…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Historic Reds defeat Waratahs for first time to lock in semi-finals berth
BRISBANE, 06 JULY 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—The Queensland Reds have taken down arch-rivals NSW Waratahs for the first time in Super Rugby Women’s history to qualify for the finals on Sunday.
Queensland held on to a 26-19 lead for 35 minutes in torrid conditions to cause the upset and book their spot in the final four following the Western Force’s defeat of the ACT Brumbies in Canberra earlier in the day.
It was the first time since Super Rugby Women’s inception in 2018 the Reds have beaten the Waratahs, snapping a 13-game losing streak that included six grand final defeats.
The result locks the Reds in for a semi-final showdown against the Drua in a fortnight while the Waratahs will travel to Perth to take on the Force in a bid to reach the 2026 decider.
The Waratahs received a triple blow pre-game with Wallaroos trio Brianna Hoy (illness), Georgina Friedrichs and Caitlyn Halse (both leg) all ruled out of the match.
It was Friedrichs replacement in the centres, Lusiana Vesikula, who struck first on the right edge courtesy of a Piper Duck pass.
Queensland responded six minutes later with Lucy Thorpe burrowing her way over the line before similiar efforts from Reds captain Zoe Hanna and Eva Karpani extended the lead out to 12.
The Reds pack were particularly strong all afternoon, setting the platform in the tough conditions.
The Waratahs reduced the deficit in the 32nd minute with flyhalf Pleuni Kievit producing a cross-field kick for Amelia Whitaker to regather and score under the posts.
Kievit then turned villain with an offside call in a try-scoring opportunity for the Reds seeing her yellow-card and conceding a penalty try.
NSW hit back after half-time through a successful running-maul with Brittany Merlo finishing off the play and reducing Queensland’s lead to seven.
Australia Sevens star Alysia Lefau-Fakaosilea got through 60 minutes in her return to the starting side for the Reds and looked threatening in her performance.
Former Wallaroo Emily Robinson, who announced her retirement at the end of the season earlier in the week, hobbled from the field with an ankle injury in a further concern for the Waratahs ahead of the finals series.
All Super Rugby Women’s sides will have a rest weekend before semi-final fixtures commence on 18-19 July.
Queensland Reds 26 (Thorpe, Hanna, Karpani, penalty tries; Cramer 2 cons) defeated NSW Waratahs 19 (Vesikula, Whitaker, Merlo tries; Miller 2 cons) at Leichhardt Oval….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Western Force grab historic victory over Brumbies as they head to Super Rugby Women’s finals series
CANBERRA, 06 JULY 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Western Force scored another historic and battling win, 36-20 over the Brumbies in Canberra, in their crucial and final regular round game of the Super Rugby Women’s season on Sunday.
After becoming the first Australia team to beat reigning champions Waratahs last week the Force notched another first at a chilly and windy Viking Park, winning three consecutive games in a Super season.
They had already secured a semi-final spot going into the clash while the Brumbies were fighting to secure their progression into the next stage.
The Force scored four first-half tries from prop Hera Barb Malcolm Heke, winger Adi Vani Buleki, scrum-half Sam Wood and reserve Atawhai Hotene, with two from the Brumbies, to take a 24-12 lead into the break.
Force reserve forwards Yuna Sato and Taylor Waterson scored two more five-pointers in the second period with the home side grabbing their third. Wood kicked three conversions
The Force got off to a flying start. Playing with the breeze they camped on the home line, turning down three consecutive penalties that brought a yellow card to Brumbies hooker Tania Naden.
The home side were caught napping, expecting another line-out from the third penalty, only to see Wood take a clever, quick tap and feed Malcolm Heke in space out wide with just four minutes on the clock.
Three minutes later winger Buleki showed great skill to control a poor pass, break two tackles and stretch out in the corner.
The Force suffered a huge setback, hit with a 20-minute red card to centre Celia Smith for a high tackle, that left her with a nasty head gash.
Their defence was resilient with a player down and they were strong at the breakdown but finally cracked when prop Linda Emelio smashed her way over under the posts. Converted by Merania Paraone.
Wood stretched her side’s lead to 10 points on the back of a dominant Force scrum and some big carries, darting through the Brumbies defence to score before converting.
As the game swung from end-to-end Brumbies second-rower Jess Grant closed the gap again before Hotene, who had just replaced Smith, made an immediate impression, collecting a lovely pop pass from fly-half Grace Freeman to cross. Wood converted.
The Brumbies opted for an early penalty after the break, leaving them nine points down, before the Force were reduced to 14 for the second time with prop Alapeta Nguamo yellow carded for a high tackle.
Desperate scramble and goal line Force defence kept the Brumbies at bay but the visitors’ penalty count mounted and they were put on a warning.
They began to dominate the scrum that had been a weapon for the Brumbies this season and their fast line speed added further pressure.
After marching down the ground their forwards went to work from a line-out with Sato going over, Wood converted, but the Brumbies hit back soon with winger Paua Lee Going crossing in the corner.
The Force iced the win when Waterson went over after the siren for the bonus point.
Western Force
Tries: Malcolm Heke (4′) Buleki (7′), Wood (27′) Hotene (35′), Sato (65′), Waterson (79′).
Conversions: 3/6
Penalties: Nil
ACT Brumbies
Tries: Emelio (19′), Grant (31′), Going (66′)
Conversions: Paraone 1/3
Penalties: Paraone 1/1 ….PACNEWS
UK – RUGBY: REUTERS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Springboks rock England with seven-try Nations Championship rout
LONDON, 06 JULY 2026 (REUTERS)—South Africa’s forward power proved decisive as they scored seven tries in beating England 45-21 in a gruelling start for both countries in the new Nations Championship in Johannesburg.
The Springboks spread their tries among Thomas du Toit, Cheslin Kolbe, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Grant Williams, Malcolm Marx, Jesse Kriel and Ben Jason-Dixon, with Kolbe putting over five conversions in his new kicking role on Saturday.
England’s tries were shared among their forwards with Ellis Genge, George Martin and Alex Coles scoring and Fin Smith converting.
England threatened to be overrun at Ellis Park as they went 17-0 down after 11 minutes but they fought back to reduce the deficit to three points at the break, only to be out-muscled in the second half.
The Springboks came storming out of the starting blocks with prop Du Toit barrelling over in the second minute.
A break by fellow front rower Ox Nche kept up a whirlwind start, allowing Kolbe to go over for a second try after six minutes.
The third followed quickly as the home sledgehammer continued with the pack again setting up the score and Arendse finishing off in the corner.
England found their confidence restored when captain Jamie George stretched over to dot down the ball but he was ruled offside after a TMO check.
The visitors finally breached Bok lines in the 35th minute when Genge took a quick tap penalty and powered over.
Before half-time, the deficit was down to three points as Smith kicked a 50-22 and , from the resultant lineout, lock Martin was also able to breach the defence.
South Africa were again on the front foot with scrum-half Williams sniping for a 44th-minute try, followed by a score for Kriel 12 minutes later as the forwards pounded away to put the hosts 31-14 ahead
With 12 minutes left, England lock Coles reduced the deficit to 10 points but hopes of a comeback were ended when centre Tommy Freeman and Guy Pepper were yellow carded, reducing England to 13 men for the final stages.
That opened the door for two more Bok tries for Marx and Dixon….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Jul 2026
Cobbo commits to deadly new role supporting community
BRISBANE, 06 JULY 2026 (NRL)—Cherbourg born Dolphins star and proud Wakka Wakka man, Selwyn Cobbo, has taken on a new role as a Deadly Choices Ambassador, empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to make healthier choices.
Deadly Choices, an initiative of the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH), is Australia’s leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander preventative health programme.
The programme empowers people to make healthy choices for themselves and their families, by encouraging Mob to eat healthy food, exercise regularly, not smoke or vape and to get a regular 715 Health Check through a Community Controlled Health Service (CCHS).
Cobbo is no stranger to Deadly Choices, having completed his Allied Health Assistant traineeship with IUIH in 2020 he has continued to stay connected with Deadly Choices throughout his Rugby League career through the Queensland Maroons, Dolphins and Brisbane Broncos partnerships.
Selwyn’s new role as a Deadly Choices Ambassador will see him use his profile in Community as a role model to highlight the importance of making Deadly Choices.
Deadly Choices Executive Director, Corey Kirk, shared his excitement for Selwyn coming on board.
“Selwyn is a leader in our Communities and an example of what healthy choices and commitment can lead to. He’s an inspiration to our young people and someone our Elders are immensely proud of.
“I’m excited to have him back in the Deadly Choices fold officially, although he’s been involved in our mission for a number of years now”.
Selwyn is also excited for the opportunity, which aligns with his passion for Community.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity with Deadly Choices, growing up in a tight knit Community like Cherbourg, I learnt the value of having role models you can look up to. I hope to be this person for young people all over Queensland.”
Cobbo joins a star-studded Deadly Choices Ambassador group including, Scott Prince, Shaylee Bent, Olivia Kernick, Taliqua Clancy, Tamika Upton, Keidean Coleman, Petero Civoniceva, Brenton Bowen and Jaime Chapman…PACNEWS
