CBL Simbu Warriors ready

The CBL Simbu Warriors Franchise Management is preparing to submit their bid to the PNG Rugby League board next Wednesday.

In an exclusive interview on Friday, Franchise Board Chairman Michael Robert confirmed meeting all the requirements and ready for the 2025 season.

The franchise remains focused on rejoining the PNG Rugby League Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup competition, after five-year absence.

Franchise Chairman Michael Robert explained that,"our first two bids, got rejected because had no field, no proper pathway, no strong board, and financial stability. Now we have ticked all the boxes and we are ready. We look forward to presenting our bid next Wednesday," Mr. Robert said.

He says Simbu Province has a pool of talent ready to produce high-quality players and believes the pathway they envision will facilitate this development.

"We have support from all local MPs and the Governor. The Local MPs pledged K200,000 each. Governor Noah Kol already released K500,000, Kerenga Kua released K350, 000 and we also have support from the entire province," Mr. Robert said.

Franchise Manager Paul John, a former player with the Lae Bombers now Snax Tigers, said they are ready to tap into the competition.

"We are ready to take the competition to the next level.

"So as you have the PNG NRL bid coming up and ensuring everybody in the country participating, why leaving Simbu Warriors behind, Simbu must be included for equal participation,"Mr. Paul said.