The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has unveiled an ambitious new initiative aimed at nurturing local talent in Papua New Guinea (PNG) as preparations intensify for a team based in Port Moresby to join the NRL in 2028.
This strategy is designed to provide increased opportunities for aspiring PNG players, aligning their prospects more closely with those offered to young athletes in Australia by enhancing their exposure to the NRL framework.
Under this plan, clubs will be permitted to sign up to two PNG pathway players outside of the salary cap, ensuring that their entire salaries are exempt from both the top 30 squad and supplementary salary cap lists.
Sylvester Namo of Papua New Guinea being tackled. Getty
By alleviating a notable financial obstacle for clubs, the ARLC aims to promote the recruitment and development of promising talent while clarifying the pathway for local players to reach the NRL.
A PNG pathway player is defined as a talent-identified individual who has engaged in junior rugby league in PNG.
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This initiative is part of a wider strategy that includes bolstered funding for participation pathways across both PNG and the Pacific region.
ARLC chairman Peter V’landys pointed to the hard-fought draw achieved by the Junior Kumuls against the Australian Schoolboys last October as clear evidence of the wealth of talent present at the junior level in PNG.
“The recent performance of the PNG schoolboys team, which drew 22-all with the formidable Australian side, distinctly showcases the emerging talent from the region,” he stated in a press release.
“These young athletes will gain invaluable experience through heightened exposure to the NRL system.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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