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Tokarara Nests Edge Out Six Tigers in Governor’s Cup Elimination Thriller

PORT MORESBY (January 7, 2026) — The 2025–2026 NCD Governor’s Cup saw a high-stakes showdown at Kone Tigers Oval as the Six Tigers, led by PNG Hunters star fullback Sanny Wabo, were eliminated in the Top 32 round by the Tokarara Nests.

The Six Tigers entered the elimination stage with significant momentum after a dominant performance in the pool rounds, where they secured three consecutive wins to finish at the top of their group. Wabo’s leadership and experience were evident throughout the early stages of the tournament, making the Six-Mile-based team a favorite heading into the playoffs.

However, the elimination match proved to be a grueling contest against a disciplined Tokarara Nests side, featuring Wabo’s Hunters teammate Ila Alu. Despite the Tigers’ firepower, the Nests capitalized on late-game errors and a lack of discipline from the Six-Mile outfit to secure a 22–12 victory.

Observers noted that while the Six Tigers played with immense strength, the Nests' clinical execution ultimately booked them a place in the Final 16. For Wabo and the Tigers, the loss marks the end of a promising campaign that began with a perfect run through the pool stages.

Papua New Guinea is set for a historic moment as Port Moresby prepares to host Rugby League World Cup 2026 matches, with rising star Sanny Wabo in contention for a Kumuls call-up.

The 2026 Rugby League World Cup will run from October 15 to November 15, staged across Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. For local fans, the highlight will be Port Moresby’s National Football Stadium, where the Kumuls will kick off their campaign against Lebanon on October 17, before hosting Samoa in Round 2.

Adding to the excitement, SP PNG Hunters fullback Sanny Wabo has emerged as a strong candidate for the Kumuls squad. Wabo has been one of the standout performers in the Queensland Hostplus Cup, delivering match-winning performances and openly declaring his ambition to wear the Kumuls jersey. He is currently vying for the coveted fullback spot alongside established names like Nene Macdonald and Alex Johnston, and his inclusion would mark a proud milestone for local rugby league.

Key Highlights

• Tournament dates: October 15 – November 15, 2026

• PNG fixtures: Lebanon (Oct 17, Port Moresby), Samoa (Port Moresby), England (Oct 30, Wollongong)

• Format: 10 teams, crossover group stage; PNG in Group C with Tonga and France

• Local hero watch: Sanny Wabo pushing for Kumuls selection after stellar season with the Hunters

For Papua New Guinea, hosting the World Cup is more than sport—it’s a celebration of rugby league as the nation’s heartbeat. With the Kumuls chasing a historic finals berth and the possibility of Sanny Wabo debuting on home soil, anticipation is soaring across the country.

Governors Cup 2025

Port Moresby is gearing up for one of its biggest off‑season rugby league showpieces as the Governors Cup 2025 draws near, promising intense competition and strong community turnout. Organizers have confirmed that this year’s tournament will feature an expanded team list, improved match venues, and a tighter schedule designed to showcase the best of NCD’s grassroots talent. Anticipation is already building across the city as clubs finalize their squads and prepare for kickoff.

A major talking point ahead of the tournament is the boosted prize money, with K100,000 set for the first‑place winner. This significant increase has raised the stakes and is expected to push teams to deliver their best performances throughout the competition. Officials say the enhanced prize reflects the tournament’s growing reputation and its role in supporting local clubs, many of which rely on such events to fund operations and player development.

Adding further excitement is the confirmed participation of Sanny Wabo’s 6 Tigers, a team known for its disciplined structure and physical style of play. Under Wabo’s leadership, the Tigers have rebuilt their roster and are entering the tournament with renewed confidence. Their presence is expected to elevate the level of competition, with supporters eager to see whether the 6 Tigers can mount a serious challenge for the top prize and make a strong statement in the 2025 season.