Following today's epic 42-20 victory against the Cook Islands, Prime Minister James Marape is convinced PNG has a much greater shot at maintaining a competitive PNG side in NRL. In a congratulatory statement, Prime Minister Marape praised the PNG Kumuls for their remarkable win over the Cook Islands in the Pacific Championships rugby league match held at Santos National Football Stadium. Emphasizing the national pride inspired by the team’s success, Marape said, “Our Kumuls have once again made the nation proud with their exceptional performance." "Their dedication and teamwork are exemplary, and I am confident they will continue to excel in the upcoming promotion-relegation match." "The entire country stands behind them," a proud Marape said. The Kumuls' victory, led by captain Lachlan Lam, has set the stage for a critical promotion-relegation match against New Zealand next Sunday at CommBank Stadium in Sydney. A win in that fixture would secure the team a position in next year’s Pacific Championships Cup division, a step that aligns with PNG’s ambition to participate regularly at the highest levels of international rugby league. Lam was instrumental in the match, not only leading his team but also contributing a try, three try assists, and a commendable 117 running metres. Fullback Nene Macdonald further boosted the team's performance, crossing the try line twice and covering significant ground. These efforts demonstrated the Kumuls' skill, unity, and readiness for greater challenges on the international stage. Marape also highlighted rugby league’s unifying impact in Papua New Guinea, likening it to South Africa’s rugby union renaissance under Nelson Mandela. “This victory is a significant milestone in the lead-up to Papua New Guinea’s inclusion in the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028." Noting the government’s commitment to the initiative, he pointed to the recent in-principle agreement with the Australian Rugby League Commission, supported by a 10-year funding plan aimed at enhancing PNG’s presence in international rugby and promoting socio-economic development. “As we look forward to joining the NRL in 2028, today’s victory is a testament to our potential and the bright future of rugby league in Papua New Guinea." "Let us continue to support our Kumuls as they pave the way for greater achievements on the international stage." The Kumuls’ success has inspired a sense of national pride and anticipation as Papua New Guinea moves closer to realizing its goal of NRL inclusion and strengthened international presence in rugby league. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister however did not say anything in his statement regarding yet another loss by the national women's rugby team, PNG Orchids, to the New Zealand Ferns this afternoon. The PNG Orchids put up a good fight on home soil but remained scoreless to the Kiwi Ferns this afternoon in the third week of the Pacific Championships. Orchids Coach, Tahnee Norries says she's still proud of the girl's performance, as they put up a good defence unlike their previous match loss to the Australian Jilaroos. Meantime, Kiwi's utility and debutant, Brooke Talaina, left the field just after 11 minutes due to a tackle incident with PNG hooker, Therese Aiton, who is now on report.