It's hoped rugby league will feature at the 2018 Commonwealth Games being held in Australia.
PNG players at the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
A nine-a-side event for Under 19s was held a month before last year's Glasgow Games, with Papua New Guinea beating Australia in the final.
Officials have already met with the Queensland Government, who are running the 2018 Games on the Gold Coast, about taking part in the festival and culture section, prior to the main event.
Tas Baitieri from the Rugby League International Federation says it's all part of a long-term plan.
"We're a category three sport within the Commonwealth Games Federation and there are a number of milestones we need to achieve to progress to a category two. An example of one of those milestones is the inclusion of a women's competition, so we're working to achieve those milestones. While we are not a medal sport right now in the Commonwealth Games we are striving to become one, possibly by 2022".
Tas Baitieri from the Rugby League International Federation.
