Former NRL superstar Jarryd Hayne, famously known as the “Hayne Plane,” has praised Papua New Guinea’s passion for rugby league, describing it as “almost religious” during his visit to Port Moresby as part of the Fiji Bati coaching staff in the Pacific Championships last week.
Hayne’s presence in the country has created a buzz across social media, with fans posting selfies and videos of their encounters with the two-time Dally M Medal winner since his arrival in the nation’s capital.
Speaking exclusively to PNG HAUSBUNG after Fiji’s victory over the Cook Islands Aitu, Hayne said the experience of being in PNG has reminded him of the deep cultural connection island nations share through rugby league.
“PNG and Fiji are very similar; we are both island cultures that love our rugby league.”
“But here in PNG, rugby league is almost like a religion. Everywhere we go, we get noticed, and the passion the people have for the game is like no other.”
The former Parramatta Eels and NSW Blues star also described the atmosphere in PNG as “electric”, saying it’s an experience that even top-level NRL games rarely match.
“There is a reason why rugby league is the number one sport in Papua New Guinea because every single person watches it.”
“The energy and the noise in the stands are unreal. You don’t get this atmosphere back in Australia.”
Hayne said he has great respect for the PNG Kumuls and their fans, acknowledging the nation’s unmatched enthusiasm for the sport.
As Fiji prepares for their upcoming clash against the Kumuls, he said the focus now shifts to improving the team’s defense and maintaining their momentum.
“PNG fans are so passionate, and it is a pleasure to come here. We know it is going to be a big game in a few weeks and this time, there will be even more people cheering.”
For many fans across the Pacific and NRL world, Hayne’s return to the rugby league scene but this time as a mentor has reignited excitement.
And in PNG, where rugby league is more than just a sport, his words hit home, affirming what every fan already knows: rugby league in PNG isn’t just played but it’s lived.
