Commander’s Cup set for finals

The Commander’s Cup will host its final playoffs on Friday, 2 October 2026, at Murray Barracks Oval in Port Moresby.

Commander’s Cup, established in 2002, is a biannual event that brings together various units from across the PNG Defence Force for a rugby union tournament.

The tournament kicked off on Saturday, September 19th, with 10 teams competing in Pools A and B, respectively.

All pool games have been completed, with the finals commencing on Friday, October 2nd, and will end on Monday, October 5th.

After five intense pool rounds, the teams are ready to compete for the Cup, Plate, Bowl, Shield, and Pennant trophies in the finals.

Igam Crocs finished on top with 17 points, followed by FSB Tigers (16), 2RPIR Muruks (14), Basilisk Marlins (14), 1RPIR Diggers (12), LRRU Troopers (8), Headquarter Chiefs (6), Lombrum Sharks (6), Goldie Warriors (1), and ATW Eagles (yet to win a game). 

Tournament Director Colonel Thomas Melua, Lieutenant Colonel Francis Vitata, and Technical Operations Coordinator from the Capital Rugby Union, Ian Liveras, are anticipating the finals. 

Speaking on behalf of the PNGDF Commander, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, Tournament Director Colonel Thomas Melua highlighted the significance of the event.

“Sports have long been woven into the fabric of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force beyond its obvious role in building physical fitness and instilling discipline, resilience, and camaraderie among soldiers,” Colonel Melua read from a statement.

“Sports have also served as a bridge between the military and the wider community. The Commander’s Cup embodies these values. 

“As the only national military sporting event in PNG, the tournament is more than a competition. It is a platform for nation-building, cultural integration, and international representation.” 

Mr. Liveras said: “We are really honored to be a part of this tournament. As rugby union die-hards, we are really grateful to the PNGDF for choosing rugby (union) as its sport of choice.

“The games started a bit slow on the first day of the tournament, but we’ve seen an increase in standard over the last five rounds. It’s been a really good experience and a learning curve for us.”

The 1134 Igam Crocs look to defend their crown, while the nine contenders aim to steal the title from the Lae-based unit. 

The Semi-final fixtures for tomorrow (October 2nd, 2026):

• LRRU Troopers vs. HQ Chiefs

• 1RPIR Diggers vs. Lombrum Sharks

• FSB Tigers vs. 2RPIR Muruks 

• 1134 Igam Crocs vs. Basilisk Marlins