The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has advised all league affiliates throughout the country that no games will commence until approval is sought from the Office of the Pandemic Controller.
PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina in a brief statement said this advice covers all Major, minor, affiliated and schools rugby league competitions that no games are to be played pending approval from the Controller’s office.
“The professional rugby league competition – Digicel Cup has been granted approval to commence it’s competition next Saturday June 5th, 2021,” Hondina said.
“I have sent a letter today (Thursday) to the Controller seeking approval for the commencement of all our other rugby league competitions after Digicel Cup games next weekend.”
He said pending this approval, no games are to commence. “Any competitions kicking off before formal approval is granted will be seen as ‘off season and a non PNGRFL sanctioned event,” Hondina said.
He added that PNGRFL as a responsible organisation has been fully complying with all Covid 19 protocols and processes since the pandemic started and will continue to do so.
“We have decentralisation strategies in place to have management and governance responsibilities delegated to the Provinces with the establishment of the Provincial Rugby League Boards,” Hondina said.
“The reforms started with the Highlands Confederate last week and we will optimise this exercise with the remaining three confederates soon.”
He said pending this exercise and other reforms, all affiliates – major and minor leagues) and associate (schools leagues) are advised not to commence their competitions until formal approval is granted.
“Let’s be compliant to all conditions and orders granted by the Office of the Pandemic Controller for the good and well- being of everyone involved whether playing, spectating and for our families and communities,” Hondina said.
PICTURE SOURCE: www.intrl.sports