Rugby league in Papua New Guinea reached a defining moment this week on Thursday as the newly established Board of the country’s National Rugby League (NRL) franchise met for the first time, laying the groundwork for the nation’s historic entry into the NRL competition in 2028. The inaugural Board meeting, held in Port Moresby, brought together key figures in PNG’s NRL journey, including newly appointed Chairman Ray Dib and Chief Executive Andrew Hill, along with a diverse group of Board members bringing extensive expertise from corporate, commercial, and sporting backgrounds. Describing the meeting as a “truly historic day,” Chairman Dib emphasized the significance of the occasion for the game in PNG. “This marks an important moment as we look ahead to our entry into the NRL in 2028,” Dib said. “We’ve already achieved a great deal, and I thank everyone who has contributed to getting us to this point. Our Board's combined experience will be instrumental in shaping our strategic direction and building a club that embodies the pride and passion of our people.” The meeting followed months of behind-the-scenes work since PNG’s inclusion in the NRL was formally announced in December 2024, during a joint press conference in Sydney with PNG Prime Minister James Marape, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and NRL Chairman Peter V’landys. Chief Executive Andrew Hill, who has been working behind the scenes for more than three years, acknowledged the milestone. “This day has been a long time in the making,” Hill said. “I want to thank the PNG and Australian Governments, along with the PNGRFL, for their unwavering support. Today marks the beginning of real, tangible preparations for our debut in 2028.” The meeting signals the official start of the franchise's journey toward full competition, with a focus on establishing world-class governance, operational structures, and a team that can compete at the highest level and inspire a nation. As the only country in the world where rugby league is the national sport, PNG’s inclusion in the NRL represents a dream come true for many and promises to reshape the game’s regional landscape.