Marcus Bai Stoked to be part of the Inaugural PNG NRL Franchise Board

Former PNG Kumuls great and one-time Melbourne Storm premiership winner, Marcus Bai, is one of the new PNG NRL Franchise Board Members that was announced yesterday (June 24) at the Santos National Football Stadium Club Lounge by Prime Minister James Marape. 

The occasion was witnessed by the Australian Minister for International Development and Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys, NRL CEO Andrew Abdo, PNGRFL Board, Sports Minister Kinoka Feo, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, Moresby South MP Justin Tkatchenko, including other distinguished guests.

Bai mentioned that he did not expect to get appointed as one of the PNG NRL franchise board members, stating: “I was shocked when the Prime Minister James Marape, Sports Minister Kinoka Feo, and PNG NRL team CEO Andrew Hill, called me to confirm my appointment.

“To be selected by the CEO of the country, including the Sports Minister, and CEO Hill means a lot to me. It shows the kind of respect they have for me when I had the opportunity to represent PNG over the years, so I truly appreciate this appointment.”

Mr. Bai added that all he ever wanted to achieve was to play rugby league at a higher level, which he did when he made it to the NRL and played for the Melbourne Storm, claiming his first premiership trophy with the Victorian club in 1999.

“I’m a simple person. I finished grade 10 in 1989 and my aim was to play rugby league. I did not plan for all this corporate stuff, but I’m thankful for this recognition. I don’t deserve this role, but I will take it with both hands and perform to the best of my ability, with the guidance of chairman Ray Dib and other senior board members appointed,” he said.   

“It’s a pleasing one for me and my family. I’m honored and humbled about this appointment, but I have a lot of work to catch up and try to understand how a board works or functions. I have no experience in that area, but I’m willing to learn and play my part in this new role.”

The West New Britain native also extended his appreciation to the K92 Mining CEO, John Lewins, for allowing him to join the inaugural PNG NRL board. He admitted that it would be challenging, but he remains optimistic and looks forward to giving his best. 

Mr. Bai further shared his experience as a professional rugby league player and encouraged aspiring rugby league players across the country to set goals, be determined and stay disciplined on and off the field.

“Opportunities are here. Digicel Cup is the pathway for emerging players in PNG to show their talents. You start with your clubs and make your way up through the Digicel Cup, the SP PNG Hunters, and eventually play for the new PNG NRL team,” Bai said.

“My advice to the players is sit down and watch the NRL games and the Hunters games, and study what position they are good at playing. That will help them develop their skills and become good players in their preferred positions.

“Most importantly, the young players in PNG must work hard, be humble and stay disciplined at all times. The players can be skillful but if they lack discipline and hard work, they can not make progress in their careers.”