PNG the biggest movers in Rugby League rankings

Papua New Guinea have been the biggest movers as the Rugby League World Rankings were announced this week. 

Following their 24-22 victory over seventh place Fiji, the Kumuls have moved three places in the rankings from 14th place to 11th. 

PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka believes the movement in rankings shows the development of the country in recent years.

“Going into the 2000 World Cup, PNG was ranked in fourth place behind heavyweights Australia, New Zealand and England. However, since then we had dropped to 14th place in 2015,” Tsaka said. 

“The win against Fiji last month was our first in an overseas match in 16 years and followed a home win over Tonga in 2014 and a close loss to the Bati in 2015.

“The strengthening and growth of our domestic rugby league programmes and the introduction of the SP Hunters into the Intrust Queensland Cup three years ago has opened up international pathways for more of our elite players.

“The growth and success of such initiatives will make us more competitive in international rugby league. We will seek to engage in more international and Test matches as a lead up to the 2017 World Cup to help prepare and build a good quality and competitive Kumul team for the tournament.”