Papua New Guinea is set to join the National Rugby League with its own team, following a new agreement between the two governments. From one NRL-loving girlie to another, a warm welcome is in order!!!!

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, PNG Prime Minister James Marape, and NRL chief Peter V’landys announced this exciting development from Sydney on Thursday morning.

“Rugby league is the national sport of Papua New Guinea, and PNG truly deserves a national team,” expressed Albanese, highlighting that it was a “great day” for both nations.

Albanese and Marape showing their support for the beloved game in 2022. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

“Australia and PNG are the closest of neighbours, and indeed, the truest of friends,” Albanese continued.

“We are united by a history of shared sacrifice and a mutual commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Pacific region. And of course, we are bonded by our shared love for rugby league. This is why I am thrilled to announce that the Australian government is backing a PNG team to enter the NRL competition starting in 2028.”

The PNG team will make its debut in the NRL in 2028 as part of the $600 million AUD Pacific Rugby League Partnership. The team will be headquartered in Port Moresby, the capital of PNG, with the government pledging to construct accommodations and offer tax-free incentives to attract players to the capital. This initiative is expected to boost the PNG economy significantly.

“I am confident it will have millions of passionate fans cheering from the very first day,” Albo enthused.

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In addition to establishing the new NRL team, the agreement includes a separate “strategic trust” pact, designating Australia as PNG’s principal security partner. While the specifics of this deal remain confidential, Albo confirmed that the initial signing took place over a year ago in Canberra.

However, as reported by the ABC, the agreement includes clauses that permit the Australian Government to terminate the deal if PNG forms an alliance with China, or other rival nations, within the next decade. Should this occur, the NRL is reportedly obligated to end the agreement entirely.

The new PNG team has yet to be named or have a jersey designed, but I eagerly anticipate their choices. Might I suggest the Dugongs? Being the national animal of Papua New Guinea, they are delightful creatures known for munching on seaweed and chilling out.