Ex Kumul skipper throws support behind PNG NRL bid

Tuesday, 25 June 2024, 11:59 am

David Mead in action for the Kumuls during the 2017 World Cup (NRL)

Kumuls legend and former captain David Mead has rallied his support for PNG in its aspirations to have a team in the NRL.

Mead says having a team in the top-flight competition would nurture positive transformation in the social and economic landscape of the country.

“The cultural and social changes that the game can bring…we all know that NRL, rugby league in particular in PNG is a vehicle that's used for driving positive behavior, positive changes, positive attitudes within the country,” Mead shared on his social media page.

“I believe that an NRL team is not going to solve everything but there's going to be economic benefits to having a PNG team in the NRL as well one thing I do believe is going to be great for the country.”

Kumuls captain David Mead taking on Wales defenders in the 2017 World Cup in Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby (Supplied)

The former NRL star said despite PNG missing a few significant aspects of the bid in terms of player development pathways, he was adamant on setting up a club based in Port Moresby.

Mead said it would be irresponsible to completely dismiss PNG’s dream of having a NRL team.
“I’m leaning towards having a team based in PNG as soon as possible whether we're ready or not.

“I think PNG needs some positive changes and the NRL team will be able to bring that.”

The Kumul great who has made 15 appearances in the red, black and gold jumper, said that the success of PNG’s bid in NRL could foster optimistic change as the country goes through tough times.

“After January 10 when the businesses were looted and destroyed…these were horrific events many livelihoods were affected, people were injured, hurt traumatized from these from those experiences.

“I think PNG needs positive change and I believe that this NRL team can bring in a lot of positive change in creating more jobs for the country.

“I think the economy can be helped with having a PNG team in the NRL, a lot more eyes are going to be on the country hopefully more investors can come into the country from around the world to develop the place and to help with the schools, hospitals, infrastructure.”

Papua New Guinea’s move to establish a club in NRL is boldly supported by both PNG and Australian governments through the bilateral relationships shared between the two countries.