S๐ถ๐ฟ ๐๐๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ๐ ๐๐ฟ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ถ๐๐บ ๐๐ป๐ป๐ผ๐๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ฒ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฃ๐ก๐โ๐ ๐ก๐ฅ๐ ๐ง๐ฒ๐ฎ๐บ
Prime Minister James Marape has officially announced Sir Hubert Murray Stadium (SHMS) as the home ground for Papua New Guineaโs National Rugby League (NRL) team, set to debut in 2028.
Speaking alongside National Capital District Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, Prime Minister Marape emphasized the governmentโs commitment to sports development and national pride.
โSir Hubert Murray Stadium is more than just a venueโitโs a symbol of PNGโs passion for rugby league,โ said Marape.
โThis redevelopment will not only provide a world-class home for our NRL team but also create jobs and boost tourism.โ
With a seating capacity of 25,000, SHMS offers significantly more space than Santos National Football Stadium, which holds 15,000 spectators.
Its prime location and scenic views of downtown Port Moresby and the Motu Koitabu villages further enhance its appeal.
Governor Parkop confirmed that the redevelopment would be completed in two phases.
โStage one will see the stadium fully completed and ready for NRL matches, while stage two will introduce a high-rise hotel and car park, integrating with Harbour Cityโs infrastructure,โ he stated.
The project is expected to elevate PNGโs sporting infrastructure, inspire young athletes, and strengthen the countryโs presence in the NRL.
โThis is a defining moment for Papua New Guinea,โ added Parkop. โWe are ready for the big stage.โ
๐ท Image taken during the official signing of PNGs entery into the NRL at the historic Sir Hubert Murray Stadium
