Kandes get the green light to join DEM Cup, pushing Cutters out

The Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) announced that the Kandes Rugby Football League Club (RFLC) will be participating in the Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup 2026 season, pushing the Kimbe Cutters out of the competition. 

After two unsuccessful bids (2023-2024), the Kandes RFLC finally got the nod to join the country’s top-flight domestic competition, signifying a step forward for PNG rugby league expansion.

The Kandes RFLC will be based in Madang Province, with plans to scout emerging talents in Madang itself, including Morobe, East and West Sepik, and the greater MOMASE region. 

The latest inclusion of the Kandes RFLC reflects PNGNRLC's commitment to expanding the reach of rugby league across the country and giving fair representation to every province.

PNGNRLC Chairman, Adrian Chow, welcomed the inclusion of the Kandes RFLC into the country’s premier semi-professional competition and wished the new franchise good luck as they prepare to participate in the DEM Cup next year. 

The cellar-dwellers, Kimbe Cutters, unfortunately did not adhere to the licensing compliance set by the PNGNRLC, which culminated in the club’s omission to take part in the DEM Cup next season.

Chairman Chow also acknowledged the Cutters' contribution to the competition over the years, saying the PNGNRLC remains committed to working closely with the club to support their return to the competition once the required entry criteria are met.

Mr. Chow clarified that while undergoing the ‘Annual Review Process’, they noted that the Kimbe Cutters did not meet all the set conditions of their annual license, hence the PNGNRLC board did not renew the club’s license for 2026 participation.

The annual review process was done for all 12 existing clubs, where they've been advised on the status of their clubs’ licenses. This process will continue annually at the conclusion of every season to maintain club professionalism as a pillar of PNGNRLC's strategic plan.

PC: PNGNRLC