DEPUTY Prime Minister Leo Dion will officially kick off this Sunday’s Prime Ministers XIII match in Kokopo.
Dion will represent Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, who will not available.
Sports Minister Justin Tkatchenko will accompany Dion, along with National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop.
Tkatchenko, while confirming Dion’s involvement said he was looking forward to the match.
“This match will be a test for rugby league and our representative potential after a big year for the game,” Tkatchenko said.
“After a successful year for our SP Hunters in the Queensland Cup, and the Digicel Cup, I look forward to see how our guys will fare against the world-champion Australians.
“We have come a long way in such a short time in our efforts to restore lost pride to our national game and team, and this (PMs XIII match) is only part of the process. It will be a huge match for us, and I am sure Mal Meninga and Michael Marum will do everything they can to ensure they are at their best come Sunday.
“I would like to welcome this quality Australian team to our shores, it is through this kind of regular international exposure that we will see rugby league grow and strengthen.”
Dion will represent Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, who will not available.
Sports Minister Justin Tkatchenko will accompany Dion, along with National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop.
Tkatchenko, while confirming Dion’s involvement said he was looking forward to the match.
“This match will be a test for rugby league and our representative potential after a big year for the game,” Tkatchenko said.
“After a successful year for our SP Hunters in the Queensland Cup, and the Digicel Cup, I look forward to see how our guys will fare against the world-champion Australians.
“We have come a long way in such a short time in our efforts to restore lost pride to our national game and team, and this (PMs XIII match) is only part of the process. It will be a huge match for us, and I am sure Mal Meninga and Michael Marum will do everything they can to ensure they are at their best come Sunday.
“I would like to welcome this quality Australian team to our shores, it is through this kind of regular international exposure that we will see rugby league grow and strengthen.”