PNG squads finalized for 2026 Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup

The open women's team going through a field session at the Sir John Guise Stadium *(Image: TFPNG)*

The final squads for the Papua New Guinea Open Division have been announced following an intensive selection process for the upcoming Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup 2026 in Sydney.

The selections follow a rigorous four-day training camp held in Port Moresby last week. Athletes underwent two days of comprehensive testing and screening with the PNG Sports Foundation’s High Performance team at the Taurama Aquatic & Indoor Centre, complemented by two days of field sessions at Sir John Guise Stadium.

Selection was data-driven, with each player’s final rating serving as the determining factor. Officials noted that while a handful of athletes met the elite standards expected during High Performance training, others struggled to fully execute during the field sessions. Australian-based players under the Queensland Paia Association underwent similar evaluations, with video footage used to ensure a thorough assessment of their performance.

The men's open squad doing field drills in Port Moresby *(Image: TFPNG)*

Every player named to the final roster will now represent PNG in the four-day Federation of International Touch-sanctioned tournament. Selected athletes are now required to ensure their passports are ready and levy fees are settled.

For those who missed out, a second chance at national selection remains. Players can prove themselves again at this year’s National Touch Championship to vie for a spot in future representative tournaments.

The Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup 2026, hosted by Touch Football Australia, will take place at the Glen Willow Regional Sports Complex in Mudgee, NSW, from April 23–26.

Ready to represent PNG on the international stage (Image: TFPNG)

PNG Open Mens: Andrew Turlom, Lennon Arua, Joel Gura, David Arua, Sam Hoki, Freddy Gelam, Jason Akama, Vali Daniel, Manuel Abraham, Macky Haro, Joe Angom, Nama Alu, Jessie Manase, Valentine Kaprangi.

PNG Open Womens: Mangai Elomi, Angela Geno, Linster Matamon, Aida Alu, Marie Hoki, Jasmine Arua, Jemimah Hetora, Monica Teite, Kenisha Beeps, Vasnie Nakandaul, Ciara Hill, Dallas Hill.

PNG Open Mix: James Maim, Ravu Ravu, Shane Johannes, Darius Yung, Dakoda Yung, Javahn Poa, Joby Oiki, Cida Steven, John Kairi, Sophia Artang, Christine Ovia, Elizabeth Ari, Malia Ruri, Kaia Skeen.