Papua New Guinea will host three matches at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, with each of the Kumuls pool games to be held in Port Moresby.
PNG players at the Rugby League World Cup. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The PNG government first signalled its interest in hosting World Cup matches two years ago, with co-hosts Australia and New Zealand offering their support.
Papua New Guinea's Minister for Sports and National Events, Justin Tkatchenko, says, after hosting a successful Pacific Games, Port Moresby has a host of new facilities ready and waiting to be used at the highest level.
"Over the last six months the World Cup team and NRL have done their due diligence and come to PNG: had a look at our hotels, medical facilities, infrastructure, stadiums and all the rest to give a recommendation as to whether we're able to host such an event so today is a bit of history for Papua New Guinea".
Justin Tkatchenko says Sir Hubert Murray Stadium can hold 20,000 fans and will likely be the first pick for possible venues, with Lloyd Robson Oval and Sir John Guise Stadium also options.
Papua New Guinea will only be hosting the Kumuls pool games, with other matches in the group to be played in Australia.
