Harlequins Retain Pepsi Super 10s Men’s Crown

The Hornibrook Harlequins defended their Pepsi Super 10s tournament title in the Open Men’s Division after defeating the Vikings with a gritty 5-0 margin on Sunday, 15 March 2026, at SCRUM Oval in Lae, Morobe Province. 

Harlequins, who won the tournament last year, came with renewed energy and took the 10-a-side event by storm, claiming back-to-back titles. 

The Harlies revved their engine from the get-go and went full steam ahead in the round-robin matches to the big dance, remaining undefeated and dominating the open men’s category. 

Club President and player Francis Miria was speechless and excited with the victory, praising the players and crediting the club’s faith. 

“I'm overwhelmed by what the team has achieved. I’m very happy and over the moon with what they have achieved,” he expressed. 

“To go back-to-back is something extraordinary. God (Anutu) gets all the glory.”

Mr. Miria explained that their preparations had not been good, but as the current champions, they used their experience to defend their title. 

“Preparation was up and down. We were not consistent,” he said.  

“I think the team came together in just a week or two, where we had a serious training for a week. 

“One thing we kept on saying is that it's our cup and we are here to defend it, and we did it.”

He acknowledged everyone for their support: “As a club, we have a saying that goes: “In Anutu, who says no, so God first. 

“We thank our great sponsor, Hornibrook NGI Limited, for paying our registration, as well as their ongoing support. 

“To the hardworking players, the coaching staff and team management, our families, friends, and the fans who came to support us, we say thank you. 

"Big commendations to coach Michael Muriki and assistant coach Henry Ben. I also recognize the leadership of co-captains Darren Raymond and Elijah Abel, and congratulate the MVP Arthur Patala.

“We would also like to acknowledge the Lae Pirates Rugby Union Club for the great initiative in hosting a successful tournament.“

The Harlequins now shift their focus to the upcoming NiuPower Sports Tok 7s and the Morobe Rugby Union (MRU) 15s competition. 

“Right now, some of our players are in the 7s team - the PC Ravens and Harlies U20s - both will be taking part in the upcoming Sport Tok 7s in Port Moresby, so we wish them all the best,” Miria said.  

“For the 15s season, it all comes down to our preseason training. We're waiting for MRU to have a meeting and set the dates for the season to start. 

“Last year, 3 of our teams went to the grand final - the U20 boys, women's, and premier men's. With God, we are hoping to bring all our divisions to the grand final this season.” 

Interestingly, the women’s team also won two consecutive titles, joining the ranks of the men’s team. The jesters of SCRUM Oval have exerted their dominance, clinching two titles in a row, respectively, and becoming the ‘Kings’ and ‘Queens’ of the Pepsi Super 10s. 

PC: Harlequins