Encouraged by the potential of the NRL expanding to Papua New Guinea, former Kumuls captain David Mead says a top-flight team would be a game-changer for unearthing untapped talent in the league-mad nation.
After the successful admission of the Dolphins into the NRL this season, the ARL Commission is exploring options to add an 18th team.
Helping PNG's case for inclusion is a push from the federal government to make a side in the Pacific nation a reality.
The NRL is seen as a player in Australia’s soft diplomacy charm offensive with Port Moresby as China becomes increasingly proactive in the Pacific.
An 18th team could enter as early as 2026, with viewers and participants key metrics in deciding where a team goes.
The NRL’s current TV deal expires in 2027 and a nine-game round could also strengthen League Central’s negotiating power with broadcasters.
Mead said the key was ensuring teenagers in PNG had access to the right training environment so when they reached NRL level they could match it with Australia’s best talent.
“I’ve seen (ARLC chair) Peter V’landys say it's very likely, and he’s a guy who makes things happen,” Mead told AAP.
“There does need to be a lot more improvement on the ground there.
“They are putting some things in place to get the junior set-ups going because I’m sure PNG would have a lot of backing in terms of funding.
“When I was at the Broncos the academy kids down to U14s level came in and trained for experience and then went back to their clubs, but in PNG there’s not much of that at the moment.”
The PNG Hunters have played in the Queensland Cup for a decade but only a handful of players - most notably Melbourne centre Justin Olam - have made the step up to the NRL.
Another Hunters graduate, hooker Edwin Ipape, is enjoying a breakout year in the Super League with Leigh.
“Justin's a very rare talent and he is someone who has worked very hard to get to where he is,” Mead said.
“Justin himself will tell you that there are more talented guys than him roaming around the streets but because there's no pathway for them they’re going to waste.”
