Sir Hubert Murray Stadium to host NRL’s newest team in PNG

Aeriel view of Si Hubert Murray Stadium. *(Image: NCDC Media)*

The PNG Prime Minister James Marape, the outgoing Australia High Commissioner to PNG John Feakes, have officially signed the documents of PNG’s inclusion in the NRL earlier this week at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby

During the grand opening ceremony, NRL Great Legend, Cameroon Smith, the National PNG NRL Bid CEO, Andrew Hill, NRL Bid Chairman Wapu Sonk, National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, Sports Minister, Kinoka Feo,and other important guests were present to witness.

Prime Minister James Marape during Grand Celebration and Official Signing of PNG’s inclusion in the NRL on Wednesday announced that Sir Hubert Murray Stadium [SHMS] will serve as the home ground for Papua New Guinea’s inaugural NRL team, solidifying the country’s ambitions for a stronger presence in the prestigious rugby league competition.

**PNG Prime Minister James Marape (siting-left), the outgoing Australia High Commissioner to PNG John Feakes (sitting-right), officially signed the documents of NRL bid. (Image: NCDC Media)**

While SHMS is the preferred choice, PM Marape acknowledged that if the stadium is not ready by 2028, the Santos National Football Stadium could temporarily host NRL games.

However, he emphasized that SHMS will be the permanent venue in the long run.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop has assured that plans are already in motion to ensure SHMS is NRL-ready before 2028. He confirmed ongoing discussions with investors and partners to fast-track the stadium’s completion.

The decision to make Sir Hubert Murray Stadium the official home for PNG’s NRL team was based on several key advantages including, historical significance, capacity which can accommodate 25,000 spectators, compared to 15,000 at Santos National Football Stadium.

Also, SHMS has a permanent structure built with concrete and steel, whereas Santos relies on a temporary scaffold framework.

In order to meet NRL standards, SHMS will undergo major upgrades in two phases; Stage 1 includes Internal Enhancements-Roofing, seating, lighting, and communications infrastructure and stage 2 – Stadium Expansion & Development-A high-rise hotel and car park complex, integrated with Harbour City’s corporate developments.