PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka yesterday announced the Oil Search PNG Orchids for the 2017 Womens Rugby League World Cup after it was finalised by coach Dennis Miall following last weekend’s warm up match in Innisfail, Australia.
Mt Hagen born Amelia Kuk has been included in the Oil Search PNG Orchids squad.
The 24 year old debuted for the Australian Jillaroos in last month’s curtain raiser to the PNG PM X111 vs Australia PM X111 game against the PNG Orchids in Port Moresby. She unfortunately missed out in selection into the Australian team.
“We contacted her and she was over the moon to join the PNG Orchids,” coach Dennis Miall said. “She was here last month and got on well with the PNG Orchids so she will not be new to the players. Her inclusion brings that experience to our side,” the coach said.
Kuk when contacted in Brisbane said: “I was over the moon when the coach called to say that I was selected in the PNG team,” Kuk said. “I am proud to represent my country and look forward to joining the camp next week.”
Kuk joins fellow Queenslander Jazmyn Taumafai as the two overseas players into the PNG side. “Taumafai cemented her spot with an impressive performance in last Friday’s 30 – 6 win over Far North Queensland All Stars in Innisfail,” Miall said.
The 24 member Oil Search PNG Orchids squad (in alphabetical order) is:
- Elvina AARON – Southern
- Helen ABAU – Southern
- Delailah AHOSE – Southern
- Della AUDAMA – Southern
- Akosita BARU – Northern
- Christie BULHAGE – Highlands
- Brenda GORO – Southern
- Carol HUMEU – Southern
- Shirley JOE – Northern
- Martha KARL – Northern
- Gloria KAUPA – Highlands
- Naomi KAUPA – Southern
- Amelia KUK – Brisbane, Australia
- Joan KUMAN – Southern
- Grace MARK – Northern
- Mala MARK – Highlands
- Janet MICHAEL – Southern
- Cathy NEAP © – Southern
- Anne OIUFA – Highlands
- Vaness PALME – Southern
- Fay Sogave – Highlands
- Jazmyn Taumafai – Brisbane, Australia
- Vero WAULA – Southern
- Maima WEI – Southern
The squad will assemble in Port Moresby next week to prepare for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup which kicks off in Sydney on November 16, 2017.
