2017 Women’s Rugby League World Cup

Playing in their first-ever match at the 2017 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, the Orchids got off to a promising start with Naomi Kaupa pouncing on a loose ball to score out wide.

The English hit back immediately through a barging run by Shona Hoyle, who burst through the PNG defence for a four pointer.

Tara-Jane Stanley successfully added the extras to put her side in front after 13 minutes.

The Orchids regained the lead when centre Anne Oifua crossed over to make it 8-6.

Botten was speaking at a function at Sydney’s iconic Opera House to welcome the Orchids to Australia for the 2017 Women’s Rugby League World Cup. Oil Search is the naming rights sponsor for the PNG Orchids.

Acting Australian Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Julie Bishop also attended the occasion on Tuesday, encouraging the team to give it their best.

The squad includes 16 World Cup debutants, as well as five players who have captained Australia this year in Sam Bremner, Karina Brown, Steph Hancock, Renae Kunst and Ruan Sims.