Kandes welcome PNGNRLC approval and inclusion in 2026 DEM Cup season

The Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) has officially confirmed the inclusion of the Kandes Rugby League Club (KRLC) as the 12th franchise in the 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.

The announcement marks the culmination of more than two years of planning, dialogue, and compliance efforts between Kandes RLFC and the PNGNRLC.

KRLC Chairman Tim Rodgers thanked PNGNRLC Chairman Adrian Chow, PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina, General Manager Tony Archer, and the competition board and management for their professional engagement throughout the process.

“This achievement belongs to every supporter, partner, and young player who believed in the Kandes,” Rodgers said. “We thank PNGNRLC for the confidence they have shown in our club. Our commitment is to build a competitive, community-driven team that represents both Madang and rural Morobe with pride, discipline, and professionalism.”

After an extensive assessment and consultation process, the Kandes franchise has confirmed Madang as its home base, with matches to be hosted at the Madang Rugby League Oval.

Rodgers said the decision was driven by both strategic and developmental factors including field readiness and the opportunity to tap into the region’s untapped rugby league talent.

While the Kandes originated from rural Morobe, the chairman said establishing a full-time base in Lae was not sustainable given two existing franchises already operate from the city.

“Our Madang base presents an exciting opportunity to expand rugby league’s reach and strengthen the game in an underrepresented region,” Rodgers said.

In preparation for its debut season, the club has appointed former PNG Hunters and Kumuls Head Coach Stanley Tepend as Head of Football.

Tepend will lead the technical and coaching team, set up the club’s high-performance program, and oversee player recruitment and development.

"We are honoured to have Stanley Tepend join us,” Rodgers said. “His experience and leadership will be instrumental in building a competitive and disciplined team culture. This marks the start of something special for the Kandes.”

The club plans to establish strong player pathways across Madang and continue community engagement programs throughout rural Morobe, where the Kandes legacy began.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the Kandes 9s Tournament in Madang, which will serve as the main player selection platform for the inaugural Kandes squad.

Rodgers said the club looked forward to working closely with PNGNRLC, provincial authorities, sponsors, and supporters “to make the Kandes name a proud symbol of excellence both on and off the field.”