In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY LEAGUE — Queensland force state of Origin decider after a 44- 24 rampant win
2. RUGBY — Waratahs star Harvey named Super Rugby Pacific Rookie of the Year, Tupaea claims Player of the Year
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Coming home is always special’: KL Iro returns home to Rarotonga after 50th NRL milestone
4. NETBALL — Fiji Pearls squad named
5. RUGBY — Brumbies backing 17-year-old teenage star Hayes for Fijiana exam
6. COMMONWEALTH GAMES — Fiji weighlifter Rainibogi aims higher at 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
7. BOXING — Two WBA title fights confirmed for July
8. OLYMPIC DAY CELEBRATION — Get into the groove: FASANOC
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — Momentum builds for PNG’s 2028 NRL entry, but debate over strategy and governance continues
10. RUGBY — Super Rugby Pacific 2026 Teams: All the team news for the Grand Final
AUST – STATE OF ORIGIN: AFP PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Queensland force State of Origin decider after 44 24 rampant win
MELBOURNE, 18 JUNE 2026 (AFP)— Selwyn Cobbo bagged a hat-trick as Queensland forced a decider in the best-of-three State of Origin rugby league series on Wednesday after a comprehensive 44-24 victory over New South Wales.
Playing on neutral territory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in front of a record Origin crowd of 91,671, the Maroons ran in seven tries to four in slippery conditions to keep their title defence.
Trailing 12-8 at the break, Queensland ran riot in the second-half to exact revenge after the Blues produced the biggest comeback win in Origin history in the opener in Sydney.
The series-decider will be played on 08 July in Brisbane.
“They started better than us, but I liked the way we dug deep and played our best in the back end of the game,” Queensland captain Cameron Munster said.
Stars Mitch Moses and Payne Haas returned from injury, but could not spark the Blues who faded badly.
“We wanted to get it done tonight, finish the series in Melbourne,” Blues fullback James Tedesco said.
“We will have our backs to the wall, but it will feel even sweeter getting the win up at Suncorp.”
After such a sluggish start in the opener, the Blues came out firing with Kotoni Staggs crossing over in the sixth minute following Tom Flegler’s drop from the kick-off.
The calamitous mistake rattled a Maroons team who had coach Billy Slater’s pre-game message to play without fear still ringing in their ears.
The pumped-up Blues pounced with Mark Nawaqanitawase flying over the line in the right corner after a great pass from star Nathan Cleary, who then nailed the conversion.
Queensland finally shook from their stupor when Munster produced a spectacular one-handed pass before Trent Loiero finished off a brilliant team try.
But Munster hit his head on the ground during the play and missed the last 15 minutes of the first-half due to a head injury assessment.
NSW held on to a slim lead at the interval before Munster returned to start the second-half in a huge boost for the Maroons.
Munster made an immediate impact when he set up Cobbo as Queensland hit the front.
Cobbo added another shortly later and Queensland’s momentum could not be stopped with Jojo Fifita’s try and Sam Walker’s conversion stretching their lead to 26-12.
After their comeback heroics in Sydney, the never-say-die Blues attempted another fightback when Nawaqanitawase scored his second try in the 59th minute.
But the Maroons finished full of run, as Cobbo completed his hat-trick to seal just their second win from seven matches at the MCG…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Waratahs star Harvey named Super Rugby Pacific Rookie of the Year, Tupaea claims Player of the Year
SYDNEY, 18 JUNE 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—NSW Waratahs outside back Sid Harvey has been honoured for his brilliant debut season, named the inaugural Super Rugby Pacific Rookie of the Year.
It comes as All Blacks and Chiefs star Quinn Tuapea claimed Player of the Year, besting Highlanders midfielder Timoci Tavatavanawai on a countback.
Harvey (27 votes) was well clear of Highlanders back-rower Lucas Casey (18) after a successful transition from the Sevens program.
He finished fourth for points (98) despite only making his starting debut in Round Five, scoring six tries in his 10 starts.
Meanwhile, Tupaea and Tavatavanawai finished tied on 43 votes, with the Chiefs midfielder winning the tie-breaker with more ‘three votes’ nods from the independent media panel across the season.
Blues back-rower Anton Segner finished third (41), with Wallabies duo Max Jorgensen and Ben Donaldson (39) closely followed.
Jorgensen and Donaldson headline a steady group of Wallabies named in the Team of the Year, calculated off the back of the Player of the Year voting.
Donaldson is joined by Western Force teammate Jeremy Williams, who partners Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second-row.
Salakaia-Loto is one of three Reds in the team alongside Fraser McReight and Jock Campbell.
The Reds and Highlanders have the most nominees, with the Chiefs and Force the only other teams with multiple selections.
Ryan Lonergan is the lone Brumby in the team, with nine out of the 11 teams represented in the Team of the Year.
“Quinn Tupaea is a most deserving winner of the Player of the Year Award, having been one of the competition’s most consistent star performers and playing a leading role in the success the Chiefs have enjoyed in 2026,” Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley said.
“I would also like to congratulate Sid Harvey on becoming the inaugural Rookie of the Year. In his breakthrough season with the Waratahs we saw the skill and confidence to suggest he has a very bright future ahead of him.
‘We’re also delighted to announce the Team of the Year and for the first time formally recognise excellence across every position on the field. Our sincere congratulations to all the players who earned selection in 2026.”
2026 Super Rugby Pacific Awards
Player of the Year
WINNER – Quinn Tupaea (Chiefs) – 43 votes
Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders) – 43 votes
Anton Segner (Blues) – 41 votes
Max Jorgensen (NSW Waratahs) – 39 votes
Ben Donaldson (Western Force) – 39 votes
Rookie of the Year
WINNER – Sid Harvey (NSW Waratahs) – 27 votes
Lucas Casey (Highlanders) – 18 votes
Team of the Year
Props – Ethan de Groot (Highlanders), Xavier Numia (Hurricanes)
Hooker – Samisoni Taukei’aho (Chiefs)
2nd Row – Jeremy Williams (Western Force), Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (Queensland Reds)
Back Row – Anton Segner (Blues), Leicester Fainga’anuku (Crusaders), Fraser McReight (Queensland Reds)
Scrum Half – Ryan Lonergan (ACT Brumbies)
Fly Half – Ben Donaldson (Western Force)
Wingers – Max Jorgensen (NSW Waratahs), Caleb Tangitau (Highlanders)
Centres – Quinn Tupaea (Chiefs), Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders)
Fullback – Jock Campbell (Queensland Reds)….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: ABC PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
‘Coming home is always special’: KL Iro returns home to Rarotonga after 50th NRL milestone
SYDNEY, 18 JUNE 2026 (ABC PACIFIC)—Less than 24 hours after marking his 50th NRL appearance, Cook Islands Aitu representative KL Iro was back where it all began.
The Cronulla Sharks back reached the milestone in Friday night’s 10–8 win over the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland, before returning to Rarotonga on Saturday to appear as a guest speaker at the Cook Islands Sports Awards 2024/25.
Reflecting on the achievement, Iro described his 50-game milestone as “very special” for both himself and his family.
The homegrown talent was also named a finalist for Sportsman of the Year, recognition he said carried deep personal meaning.
“This is a massive honour for me because I worked so hard as a kid to be where I am today,” he said.
“I’m really lucky and grateful to live the life that I am right now… so I’m happy to be a nominee. That’s all I need, I don’t need to get the award. I’m just really happy to be here, to be with my family and to just be back home.”
For Iro, who grew up in Rarotonga before pursuing his rugby league career in Australia, returning home remains an essential part of his journey.
“Coming home is always special. It’s a chance for me to rejuvenate and refill my cup.”
Speaking during a panel discussion at the awards, Iro also addressed the responsibility he feels as one of the Cook Islands’ leading sporting figures, particularly for the next generation.
“I think it’s good for me to lead by example now for the younger kids coming up the ranks,” he said.
“Hopefully I can not just be a role model for my little brother or my family, but also for the little kids coming up in the Cook Islands as well.”
Iro said his passion for rugby league began early, inspired by the careers of his father, Kevin Iro, and uncle, Tony Iro.
Following the panel, his parents Kevin and Tina Iro spoke separately about the values that have shaped their son.
“He’s got a whole lot more drive than I had and I could see that from a young age,” Kevin said.
“He never gave up and he’s always pushed himself to the max.”
While Kevin and Tina were unable to travel to Auckland for KL’s 50th NRL match due to another family celebration, they watched proudly from home.
The moment carried added significance given the family’s long connection to the Warriors.
Kevin and his brother Tony both played for the club, and it was through those early experiences in the Warriors environment that KL’s NRL ambitions took shape.
Tina said it was especially meaningful to hear her son acknowledge the importance of family during his appearance on stage.
“He’s very grounded, very humble, and he deserves everything that he has got,’ she said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – NETBALL: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Fiji Pearls squad named
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI STIMES)—The Fiji Pearls 22-member squad for engagements this year was named Tuesday.
The 22-member squad sees a number of national representatives in previous outings and young players who featured for Fiji with the Baby Pearls under-21 side in the Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar last year.
Netball Fiji transition committee chair Vasiti Vugakoto and Fiji Pearls head coach Michelle Parsons announced the 22-member squad
It’s the latest step towards Netball Fiji’s plans to elevate the national squad back to top form, after preparations for the trials began in April this year.
There were 94 players present for that particular trial.
Selectors said the chosen group will remain together for the remainder of the season as preparations begin for the Spirit Series in Sydney, Australia next month.
The selection panel noted that any athletes identified during an upcoming international player’s trial next month would be added to the squad rather than replacing current members.
Preparations are expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with players set to undertake a demanding training program designed to improve fitness, skills and mental resilience.
Head coach Parsons believes the schedule will help build a strong team culture while preparing athletes to perform under pressure at a higher level of competition.
Training for the team is expected to start today.
Fiji Pearls squad:
Shooters – Cilia Lewatu, Esther Dawai, Leehava Saverio, Lydia Panapasa, Matilla Vocea, Nina Nakula, Robyn Navoka. Midcourt– Anatolia Nuku, Ateca Buli, Elenoa Rasaubale, Elina Drikibau, Jimaima Kete, Susana Rasaubale, Tuipulotu Vulimailaucala, Vutaeli Tokaduadua.
Defenders – Alisi Naqiri, Elenoa Gukirewa, Ema Mualuvu, Eseta Waqaira, Kalesi Tawake, Nanise Waqaira, Ravaela Koroiravudi…..PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Brumbies backing 17-year-old teenage star Hayes for Fijiana exam
CANBERRA, 18 JUNE 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—She may be sitting her exams right now, but Brumbies fullback Georgie Hayes is set for the ultimate test on Saturday against the Fijiana Drua.
17-year-old Hayes will make her starting debut at the back in Ba for the Brumbies, making her debut at the start of the Super Rugby W season.
Coach James Erwin backed the Wagga product to bring the same energy she’s managed throughout Next Gen Sevens for the Brumbies as they look for a maiden win in Fiji.
“She plays with the energy and confidence that we want and certainly a real boost for the group to have her in and around football all the time,” he said.
“We saw some patches on the weekend where she sees some space, uses her footwork so really when we get to Fiji, it’ll be a really good opportunity for her to lean into some of that Next Gen sevens form that she’s been in, winning a one-on-one contest and then creating a lot of time and space for those around her so she’s looking forward to ripping in.
“It’s awesome to see the individual effort that these kids put in. Georgie’s sitting exams at school this week so she’s ripping in.”
Hayes’ elevation comes after the loss of Faitala Moleka to an eye contusion, suffered during their defeat to the Waratahs.
The Wallaroo came off with 10 minutes to go after clutching at her eye after some stray contact following a tackle on Martha Harvey.
“The decision was there to potentially take her to Fiji but we made the decision that it was best to rest her this week, give her the bye week to get back to where she needs to ,” Erwin explained.
“It’s a pretty unique injury with the eye, and something we want to take very seriously versus a little hammy niggle.”
The Brumbies have also handed First Nations talent Savannah Roberts-Hickling a potential debut off the bench, the graduate of the Brumbies Indigenous Pathways Program, to play Super Rugby Women’s should she take the field in Fiji.
“Savannah’s been nothing but fantastic every time she first came into our first ever female First Nations IPP program,” Erwin said on the proud Bundjalung and Gomeroi woman.”
“Every session she goes from strength to strength. The reality is she had a bit of a knee niggle through the pre-season so her getting an opportunity to make her debut was always coming but what’s really pleasing is she’s done the work to get herself where she needs to be.
“Stepping on the field in Fiji, she’s done the work to earn the right to play the way that we need her to play to get the result we need.”….PACNEWS
FIJI – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Fiji weighlifter Rainibogi aims higher at 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Weightlifting sensation Taniela Rainibogi, widely celebrated as Fiji’s golden boy, is set to chase his first Commonwealth Games gold medal at this year’s prestigious event in Glasgow, Scotland.
Hailing from Malaka Vanuabalavu in Lau but brought up in Levuka Ovalau, Rainibogi is now a seasoned athlete preparing for his third international Commonwealth Games appearance following his recent selection to the national squad, sparking hopes of a historic victory for Fiji.
In his debut appearance, he finished sixth, but he returned stronger at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, where he claimed a bronze medal.
Surpassing that achievement will be no easy task, yet Rainibogi remains grounded with a simple yet powerful approach that has driven his weightlifting success.
“There’s a lot of expectation for me to perform, but I’m not putting pressure on myself,” he said.
“For me, it’s just about taking one step at a time.”
As the Games draw nearer, his greatest concern is the risk of injury during intense preparations.
“As the competition gets closer, so does the intensity of training. This is when we’re most vulnerable to injuries, which could affect our performance,” he explained.
“But training has been going well, and we’re aiming to deliver a fantastic performance at the Commonwealth Games.”
True to the spirit of a champion, Rainibogi plans to take each day as it comes, relying on his wealth of experience to ensure he is in peak condition for the Glasgow meet…..PACNEWS
FIJI – BOXING: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Two WBA title fights confirmed for July
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN) —Fiji’s Mikaele Ravalaca will defend his WBA (World Boxing Association) Oceania Lightweight title against India’s Rohit Chauhan in the main bout of Kings Boxing Promotion’s fight night at Vodafone Arena in Suva on July 25.
Promoter Nahroon Buksh confirmed the event to SUNsports, highlighting it as one of the most competitive cards the promotion has staged.
“The event will also feature WBA Oceania Super Bantamweight champion Binnu Singh, who is set to defend his title against an overseas opponent from India,” Buksh said.
He said negotiations are continuing, with the challenger yet to be confirmed.
“We have two WBA title defences. Alongside the two WBA title fights, the programme will include a Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) title contest between Robin Hazleman and Isikeli Senidoko, while heavyweight contenders Semi Dauloloma and Joseph Kwadjo are also scheduled to feature,” Buksh said.
He said the event will involve a total of 24 fighters competing across 12 professional bouts, as well as four exhibition contests involving junior boxers.
One of the most anticipated match-ups is the clash between Ravalaca and Chauhan. The Indian boxer has previously fought twice in Fiji and won both encounters.
“People have wanted to see Rohit fight Mika for some time now. Rohit has done well in Fiji, but Mika is on a different level. We expect a strong contest,” he said.
Buksh also assured boxers that medical and safety measures will be in place throughout the event.
“Boxing is a combat sport, and we are fully prepared. Medical personnel, ambulances and all required support services will be on standby to ensure the welfare of every boxer,” he said.
He urged fans to turn out in numbers to support local fighters as they compete against international opposition.
“We encourage fans to turn out in numbers and support local boxing.
Our fighters are competing in important international contests and we look forward to seeing a big crowd on the fight night,” he said…..PACNEWS
FIJI – OLYMPIC DAY CELEBRATION: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Get into the groove: FASANOC
SUVA, 18 JUNE 2026 (FIJI TIMES—The Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) is inviting Fijians of all ages and abilities to come together and celebrate Olympic Day 2026 at Albert Park, Suva, on Saturday, 27 June, under the global theme “Let’s Move.”
Olympic Day is celebrated worldwide each year on 23 June to commemorate the founding of the modern Olympic Movement and promote the values of sport, physical activity, and community participation.
While the international celebration takes place on 23 June, FASANOC hosts Fiji’s Olympic Day event on 27 June, providing an opportunity for more families, schools, athletes, and members of the public to take part.
This year’s celebration embraces the International Olympic Committee’s global Let’s Move campaign, encouraging people everywhere to make time for movement and enjoy the physical, mental, and social benefits of an active lifestyle. Through the campaign message, “You Can Do This,” Olympic Day aims to inspire people of all ages and fitness levels to take that first step, try something new, and discover the joy of movement.
This year’s event continues the strong partnership between FASANOC and the Australian High Commission, with the Australian Defence Force once again delivering the popular Vuvale Bootcamp. The bootcamp has become a highlight of Olympic Day celebrations here, bringing participants together through teamwork, fitness, and fun physical challenges.
FASANOC is also pleased to welcome the United States Embassy in Suva as a new partner for Olympic Day 2026. As part of building awareness and excitement towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games (LA28), the Embassy will host an interactive booth showcasing NFL Flag Football, one of the newest sports set to feature on the Olympic programme.
The inclusion of Flag Football gives Fijians the opportunity to learn more about the fast-growing sport and experience a taste of what is to come at LA28. The activation reflects the growing connection between local communities and the global Olympic Movement as the world looks ahead to the next Olympic Games in the United States.
Registration forms are available from FASANOC and on the day from 7:00am at Albert Park. Participation is completely free and on the day, a limited number of t-shirts will be available for early bird registrations. Following the Vuvale Bootcamp, participants will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of “Try a Sport” activities hosted by National Federations and sporting organisations.
Participants can test their skills in archery, athletics, baseball, basketball, chess, darts, football, hockey, judo, netball, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, and NFL Flag Football, while also engaging with Voices of the Athletes and Art on the Go activities. The event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming, allowing participants to discover new sports and connect with Fiji’s sporting community in a fun and interactive environment.
Olympic Day is more than a celebration of sport; it is a global movement that encourages people to move more, learn new skills, and build stronger communities through physical activity. As Fiji joins the rest of the world in celebrating Olympic Day, FASANOC hopes the event will inspire more people to embrace active lifestyles and recognise that movement can begin with a single step.
Whether participants attend to challenge themselves in the Vuvale Bootcamp, try a new sport, meet athletes, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, Olympic Day 2026 promises to be a celebration of movement, inclusion, and the Olympic spirit.
FASANOC encourages schools, sporting clubs, families, and members of the public to join the celebration and remember one simple message: Let’s Move. You Can Do This….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: ABC PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Momentum builds for PNG’s 2028 NRL entry, but debate over strategy and governance continues
PORT MORESBY, 18 JUNE 2026 (ABC PACIFIC)—Papua New Guinea’s push to enter the 2028 NRL competition is gaining momentum, but not without early division.
Initial public reaction in PNG was mixed: some questioned whether funding could have been better directed toward essential services, while others criticised key recruitment strategies aimed at attracting NRL talent.
The past few months have been particularly challenging for PNG Chiefs management.
General Manager Michael Chammas came under scrutiny after proposing an “international-style” school for players’ children, a move intended to support relocating families but one that sparked a fierce backlash online.
Social media response from PNG fans was swift and often harsh.
Critics labelled the idea “segregation and another form of apartheid separating the whites from the blacks”, while others said it was “giving South African vibes”.
Another commented: “Might as well build a special grandstand for their families at the NFS (National Football Stadium) with bulletproof glass as well …”
However, sentiment has shifted markedly in recent weeks.
Momentum accelerated following Wests Tigers captain and Samoan international Jarome Luai’s high-profile visit to Port Moresby.
Luai attended a match alongside Prime Minister James Marape and became the franchise’s first confirmed signing.
His commitment was soon followed by PNG Kumul and the NRL’s leading try-scorer Alex Johnston, signalling the emergence of what is increasingly being framed as a Pacific-led NRL side.
The recruitment drive has continued, with Sydney Roosters utility Connor Watson and England international and St Helens premiership-winning forward Matty Lee signing on, and PNG Kumuls all-time leading points scorer and captain Rhyse Martin appointed as the club’s football operations manager from 2027.
With facilities reportedly being developed through $600 million in Australian government funding, the project now appears firmly in motion.
Still, concerns around governance and public accountability remain.
Academic and political commentator Yuambari Haihuie is a master of public policy candidate, specialising in integrity and anti-corruption, and warned that there needed to be transparency and accountability.
“Given the governance risks in PNG, for instance with contracting, and increasing perceptions of ‘boomerang aid’, the long-term success of the PNG Chiefs will require greater levels of transparency on plans,” Haihuie said.
“So too are accountability and public support on both sides of the Coral Sea.”
Scepticism is rooted in precedent, with Australian contractors historically benefiting from aid-funded projects in PNG.
A ‘Family Team’ vision under scrutiny
Chammas has defended the family-focused approach, describing relocation to PNG as an “adventure of a lifetime” for players’ children.
PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson has moved to clarify the controversy.
“Regarding schooling and family arrangements, Michael Chammas’ comments were misinterpreted. The PNG Chiefs are not building a school,” she clarified.
“Family support systems will be consistent with what is standard across professional NRL clubs, and everyone is equal, including PNG players and their families. We are building a family and an institution for PNG.”
On the field, recruitment momentum suggests the club is gaining credibility. Off the field, however, questions remain about cultural understanding and inclusivity.
Ian Chow, Lae Snax Tigers owner and former PNG Sports Foundation chairman, strongly criticised the schooling proposal.
“Seriously, he thought to do this? This is a bit elitist, bit colonial. Their own private school?Where is the spin-off for the good established International schools in Port Moresby that we send our children to?” Chow said.
“This just supported my claim that these ‘foreigners’ have no idea about PNG, and some real PNG people should be assisting them.”
Chammas, however, has consistently framed the initiative as part of a broader effort to reassure incoming players and their families about safety and lifestyle in Port Moresby, a key hurdle in attracting elite talent ahead of the 2028 entry.
The concept draws from the COVID-era “bubble” environment, where players’ families lived and studied together during the NRL’s Sunshine Coast hub.
If the PNG Chiefs get it right, the model has precedent. The 2020 Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James, used the COVID-19 “bubble” environment to build unity and ultimately secure the franchise’s 17th championship.
While athletes reported the mental strain of extended separation from family, a strong central figure like James proved critical in aligning the group around a single goal – winning a premiership.
Pay equity and local pathways
There have also been concerns that NRL players coming from Australia may be treated like “expat” rugby league players with separate remuneration from PNG rugby league players and staff.
Currently, “expats” in PNG are paid three times the salary of a “national” employed in the same role.
One fan captured the frustration: “Focus on selecting a coach and players before building a fairy tale life for non-PNG citizens, and then expect the masses to pay match fees to attend games.
“I’m sorry, but you’re either all in as a Chiefs for PNG or you’re not. If you need to sweeten that deal, then they’re not for us.”
Haihuie reinforced the need for clarity.
“This is why the transparency around PNG Chiefs’ long-term plans is important, it builds public buy-in. At this stage, I can’t speculate on recruitment strategy as the strategy is deliberately opaque,” he said.
McPherson has attempted to address these concerns, emphasising the centrality of local talent.
“Local talent is central to the PNG Chiefs programme; the pathways will be structured, transparent, and aligned with NRL standards,” she said.
“PNG players will have access to the same high-performance systems, facilities, and development opportunities as any other player in the squad.”
Ownership, sovereignty and ‘Boomerang Aid’
Beyond recruitment and facilities, deeper concerns exist around ownership and national control of the franchise.
Chow has been one of the most vocal critics, describing the broader deal as “classic Australian boomerang aid”, funding that ultimately cycles back to Australian interests.
He expressed deep concerns regarding national sovereignty, local control, and the potential sidelining of existing domestic clubs.
Chow specifically challenged the ownership of major infrastructure, such as the proposed Centre of Excellence at Bisini.
He argued that if these facilities are built in PNG for a PNG team, they should be owned by the PNG Sports Foundation rather than foreign entities.
“I was told ARLC is getting the LAND title of softball land, which belongs to PNGSF. It seems odd and not right to cut a piece of land out of the sports complex and give it to ARLC, which will own it with the centre of excellence facilities, which will be constructed,” Chow said.
“They said it will be returned to who owns the PNG Chiefs in 10 years’ time. Why should ARLC own and control it for PNG for 10 years?”
He also criticised the negotiation process, arguing it was driven by political interests rather than rugby league expertise within the PNGRFL.
In response, McPherson reiterated that all agreements are proceeding through proper legal channels and that further announcements will be made in due course.
‘The PNG Chiefs is a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity for the country, and we remain focused on delivering a professional, world‑class franchise for Papua New Guinea,’ she said.
She also sought to reassure supporters about the club’s identity: “The PNG Chiefs is being built as a national team that represents Papua New Guinea on and off the field. Every decision, from governance to pathways to culture, is anchored in ensuring the team reflects PNG identity, PNG values, and PNG pride.
“The team will serve the people of PNG, and that commitment is not negotiable.” …. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 18 Jun 2026
Super Rugby Pacific 2026 Teams: All the team news for the Grand Final
WELLINGTON/WAIKATO, 18 JUNE 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—The Hurricanes and Chiefs have confirmed their sides for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final.
Both teams have been forced into changes as they look to break their respective droughts, with the Hurricanes out for their first title since 2016.
The hosts are boosted by the return of Devan Flanders, who has overcome a concussion to start in the back-row.
The only other change to the starting side comes in the second-row as Isaia Walker-Leawere partners Warner Dearns.
Jacob Devery and Brad Shields have been added to the bench, with a sold-out crowd at Hnry Stadium already confirmed after all tickets were snatched up inside 15 minutes.
“It’s a hugely exciting week and game ahead. A home final in front of a sold-out stadium, it doesn’t get much better than that,” Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said.
“We’ve prepared really well at the start of the week. We’ve got no question about what’s coming from the Chiefs and how good they are. We know it’s going to be a tough battle, but it’s something we’re really excited about.
“It’s great news that we can welcome back Devan Flanders and pick a really settled team at this stage of the season. That’s something we’re really grateful for. It’s a massive weekend, we’re hugely excited and can’t wait to get into it.”
Meanwhile, the Chiefs are looking to avoid four straight defeats in the Grand Final, losing former Waratah and nine-cap Wallaby Lalakai Foketi to a calf injury.
Centre Kyle Brown comes into the starting side to replace him, joining vice-captain Quinn Tupaea.
The other change comes at fullback, with Liam Coombes-Fabling shifting from the wing to replace Isaac Hutchinson (knee), paving the way for All Black Leroy Carter to start.
Reon Paul has been added to the bench, whilst number eight Wallace Sititi wasn’t considered as he continues to be managed following a nasty concussion.
“You work hard to be given this opportunity and it is satisfying to be in this position, but we also know there is one more game to win,” Chiefs coach Jono Gibbes said. “The Hurricanes have been the pace setters throughout the season and it will be a terrific challenge playing them at their home, but it is one we are looking forward to.
“Playing in front of a full house is always stimulating and we know there will be plenty of Chiefs supporters in the crowd, ringing their cowbells loudly.”
Saturday 20 June 5:05 pm AEST – Hurricanes v Chiefs at Hnry Stadium, Wellington, live and on demand on Stan Sport
HURRICANES (1-15): Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua, Pasilio Tosi, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Warner Dearns, Devan Flanders, Du’Plessis Kirifi (co-c), Peter Lakai, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Fehi Fineanganofo, Jordie Barrett (co-c), Billy Proctor, Josh Moorby, Callum Harkin
Replacements: Jacob Devery, Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Brad Shields, Brayden Iose, Ereatara Enari, Jone Rova, Kini Naholo
CHIEFS (1-15): Ollie Norris, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Sione Ahio, Josh Lord, Tupou Vaa’i, Samipeni Finau, Luke Jacobson (c), Simon Parker, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, Kyren Taumoefolau, Quinn Tupaea, Kyle Brown, Leroy Carter, Liam Coombes-Fabling
Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Jared Proffit, George Dyer, Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Reon Paul
Referee: Nic Berry
Assistant Referees: Reuben Keane, Louis Trisley
TMO: Brett Cronan….PACNEWS
