The Australian Prime Minister's 13 is determined to keep their perfect record in tact in their annual rugby league clash against Papua New Guinea tomorrow night.
The Australian team is undefeated in the fixture since its inception in 2005, and toppled the hosts 34-16 last year.
The home team has been selected entirely from the Digicel Cup domestic competition, with PNG Hunters and overseas-based players not considered.
League coach Ivan Cleary. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Australian PM's coach Ivan Cleary admits he doesn't know a lot about their opponents but says they aren't taking anything for granted.
"I'm expecting [an] extremely committed and passionate group - playing in front of a new stadium up there. Obviously [it will be] a big crowd and passionate crowd in a
fixture they look forward to every year so a real opportunity for those boys. We're under no illusions we're going to face a very strong and committed side and we'll be ready for it".
Ivan Cleary says it's a unique experience playing rugby league in Papua New Guinea and he believes it's Australia's duty to go there and support the local game as often as possible.
The annual Prime Minister's rugby league clash between Australia and Papua New Guinea will be held at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby, which also hosted the Pacific Games. Photo: Facebook / Hon Justin W Tkatchenko MP
