Papua New Guinea (PNG) has a rich rugby league heritage, producing several players who have made significant impacts both nationally and internationally.Here are five of the greatest rugby league players from PNG:
1. Marcus Bai
arcus Bai emerged as a trailblazer for PNG in the rugby league world.fter a stint with the Gold Coast Chargers, he joined the Melbourne Storm in 1998, where he quickly became a fan favorite.ai was instrumental in the Storm’s 1999 NRL Grand Final victory over St George Illawarra, earning the Dally M Winger of the Year award in 1998.e also represented PNG in the 2000 World Cup, leading the team to its first quarter-final appearance.ai concluded his career in England, winning the 2004 Super League Grand Final with Leeds Rhinos.citeturn0search0
2. Justin Olam
ailing from a remote village in PNG, Justin Olam’s journey to the NRL is nothing short of inspiring.e became the first player to progress from the PNG Hunters in the Queensland Cup to the NRL.nown for his physicality and tenacity, Olam played a pivotal role in the Melbourne Storm’s 2020 NRL Premiership win, scoring the opening try against the Penrith Panthers.n 2021, he was honored as the Dally M Centre of the Year, solidifying his status as one of the game’s elite centers.citeturn0search0
3. Adrian Lam
drian Lam’s leadership and skill have left an indelible mark on rugby league.e captained PNG to a historic World Cup quarter-final in 2000 and was the first PNG international to lead Queensland in the State of Origin series, amassing 14 appearances.uring his tenure with the Sydney Roosters, Lam played 146 games before transitioning to a successful coaching career in England, where he led the Leigh Leopards to a Challenge Cup victory in 2023.
orn in Sydney to a Papua New Guinean mother, Alex Johnston has become one of the NRL’s most prolific try-scorers.laying for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, he has accumulated 195 tries, placing him second on the all-time list in Australian rugby league history.ohnston represented PNG in the 2022 Rugby League World Cup and remains a key figure for both club and country.
tanley Gene’s versatility and longevity have made him a beloved figure in rugby league.fter showcasing his talent in the 1995 World Cup, he spent 14 seasons in England, known for his robust defense and dynamic ball-running.ene was instrumental in PNG’s success during the 2000 World Cup, scoring two tries to help defeat Tonga.ollowing his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, contributing significantly to the development of the sport.
hese players have not only elevated the profile of rugby league in PNG but have also inspired future generations to pursue the sport at the highest levels.
