Kumuls’ win crucial leading up to World Cup

The PNG Kumuls’ 24-22 victory over the Fiji Bati on Saturday night is a crucial step in preparations leading up to the 2017 League World Cup.

Minister for Sports Justin Tkachenko has challenged the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) to ensure that proper plans and timelines are set out for the Kumuls’ preparations.

Tkachenko challenged PNGRFL to ensure that the crucial decisions that need to be made are made, and the proper plans and timelines are set out for the team’s preparations.

He said in a statement that the Kumuls’ win will also be a challenge for every player eligible for Kumul selection to prepare and perform to their very best in their respective competitions.

Tkachenko said that the National Government committed to the game in 2012 to get it back on track, and that has not changed ahead of the World Cup.

“The passion that the Kumuls demonstrated to win brought back memories of Kumul performances of the past, where the country came together as one and with great pride.

“Congratulations must go to David Mead and his team, Coach Michael Marum and his staff and the work that they put in on the training fields, including the PNGRFL board,” Tkachenko said.

He stated that modern day rugby league is a very long way from the past and preparation and progress is very crucial.

Persistence from this result could potentially assure our rugby league stronghold of a result we can be very proud of at the World Cup, Tkachenko added.

(Picture by NRL photographer Grant Trouville)

Author: 
Quintina Naime