By CHARLIE DUMAVI
AHEAD of PNG’s rugby league world cup opener in England against Tonga in their Pool D, Tonga is already tipped as the favourites to beat PNG.
These is backed by their well-known players such as Titans forward David Fifita Jason Taumalolo and Daniel Tupou who contributed immensely to their recent rise in ranks since 2017.
Tonga is ranked second behind Australia and is the only Pacific Island nation in the recent history to beat the giants in the game, Australia Kangaroos. This world Cup tournament is another opportunity to the tiny Island nation of Tonga who once had the taste of victory in the region make history on world stage that starts on Wednesday October 19, 2022 against PNG.
Tonga have already stepped their mark over France 48-12 in their RLWC warm up match and will polish on it against PNG.
The Papua New Guinea boys on the other hand is one of the passionate team with few of outstanding individuals who are in the peak of their rugby career. Leading the pack is Rhyse Martin, Justine Olam, Alex Johnstone, and the recently crowned Betfred rugby league champions Lachlan Lam with the England based players Wellington Albert, Edwin Ipape and the inclusion of play maker Kyle Laybut.
Martin in his recent interview said it is exciting for him to captain PNG and said he cannot wait to run out for Kumuls.
“They (Tonga) have been one of the best teams in the last few years. We got them in round one which is going to be a big game for us. We need to turn up in that game. It is a must win,” Martin said.
He also bases his trust on Edwin Ipape who had a massive 2022 rugby season to make a break for PNG against the favourite Tonga. PNG will later face Cook Islands on October 26, followed by Wales on November 1, 2022.
