In a major milestone for Papua New Guinea’s sporting future, rugby league great Marcus Bai has been appointed to the board of the country’s upcoming National Rugby League (NRL) franchise, marking a proud and historic moment for the nation. The official announcement of PNG’s inclusion in the NRL has generated a wave of excitement across the country. At the centre of this landmark development is Bai, a former Kumul and internationally respected figure in the sport. Bai, who represented PNG on the global stage and enjoyed a successful professional career, described his appointment as both “shocking” and deeply humbling. Despite his rise to the upper echelons of rugby league, Bai remains grounded. “I’m just a simple person,” he reflected, recalling that he left school after Grade 10 in 1989.” “Didn’t plan for all this corporate stuff — I just wanted to play rugby league.” He emphasized that his journey stands as a message of hope and motivation for young Papua New Guineans. “It’s a good story for our young boys and girls to see,” he said. “Train hard, play well, be consistent — and opportunities will follow.” Bai paid tribute to fellow PNG rugby pioneers including Stanley Gene, Mark Mom, Adrian Lam, David Wesley, and Christopher Mondo, stating that he shares this achievement with them. “I feel I don’t deserve it,” he admitted. “But I represent them — the Kumul old boys — and I know their support is always there.” While acknowledging that he has never served on a board before, Bai expressed eagerness to learn from experienced professionals including Ian Tarutia, Wapu Sonk, and SP Hunters chairman Stan Joyce. The establishment of PNG’s NRL franchise is expected to transform the country’s rugby league landscape. Bai noted that the new franchise will primarily select players from the PNG Hunters, encouraging young players to aim for consistency at the Digicel Cup level. “Focus on your local clubs, perform well in the Digicel Cup — and you’ll have a pathway to the top.” The appointment of Marcus Bai to the NRL franchise board symbolizes not only the recognition of his contributions to PNG rugby league, but also a bold step forward for the sport's future in the country.