Commander’s Cup kicks off 10th Edition

The biennial Commander’s Cup commences its tenth edition on Saturday, 19 September 2026, at Murray Barracks Oval in Port Moresby, National Capital District.

The games will be hosted in two separate venues in the nation’s capital, including Murray Barracks and Bava Park. 

The Commander’s Cup, held once every two years, brings together soldiers from across PNG for a rugby union tournament.

It is designed to foster camaraderie, morale, and interaction among the service members of all units within the PNG Defence Force. 

A total of 10 teams have registered to participate in a two-week rugby union 15s tournament.

Tournament Director Colonel Thomas Melua said: “The tournament was created to bring together the members of all units to play rugby. 

“The competition has evolved since 2002 from rugby 7s to a full 15-man tournament.

“The tournament features teams representing different military bases across the country, including units, battalions, and specialized forces.” 

Colonel Melua urged the participating teams to maintain sportsmanship on and off the field.

“I want to challenge all the teams from the different units that we are here to promote unity and sportsmanship in our organization,” Mr. Melua said.

“There’s only one winner, and the winner is the Papua New Guinea Defence Force. 

“The tournament brings all of us here to build the spirit of sportsmanship to showcase your physical fitness and morale within the force.” 

Colonel Melua thanked the Chief of PNG Defence Force, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, sponsors, Capital Rugby Union, and everyone involved in making the tournament possible. 

Commander Philip Polewara reflected on the importance of hosting the biennial Commander’s Cup. 

“Thank you for your time and effort to put the teams together,” Rear Admiral Polewara said.

“It’s a rugby game, but look back in our history. The PNG Defence Force dominated athletics, rugby league, and rugby union. That is what matters the most.”

Commander Polewara stressed the significance of gender equality, urging the organizers to include a women’s tournament in the future.

He also mentioned that he wanted some soldiers to get selected to represent PNG on the international stage, including the PNG Pukpuks, PNG Hunters, and PNG Kumuls. 

The PNG Defence Force boss acknowledged the organizers and wished the participating teams good luck.

Acting President of the host team Headquarters Chief Sergeant Allan Paraka said: “We are living in different parts of the country. 

“We don’t get to see one another. So, this tournament will bring us together, allowing us to build connections and camaraderie.”

The 1134 Crocs representing Igam Barracks won the last Commander’s Cup in 2023, hosted in Lae, Morobe province. They defeated the 2RPIR Muruks in the grand final to claim the cup at Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium. 

Established in 2002, the Commander’s Cup started as a 7s tournament and later transitioned to a 15s event, promoting a healthy lifestyle and fostering relationships among PNG soldiers.