Former Queensland Women’s team representative Jazmyn Taumafai, whose mother was born in Port Moresby, has been named in the 19-player Oil Search PNG Orchids squad for this week’s warm-up match against an invitational side at Innisfail in Queensland, Australia.
Oil Search PNG Orchids coach Dennis Miall said Taumafai, who is based in Brisbane and is a cousin of PNG LNG Kumuls hooker Kurt Baptiste, joined the squad in Cairns yesterday.
“Taumafai has represented Queensland in the women’s rugby league Interstate Challenge against New South Wales and will play in this warm-up match,” Miall said.
“She will bring some experience into our side and I know the squad travelling down will look forward to her joining the team.”
“When I got the call from the coach to play for PNG Orchids this weekend, my heart was beating out of my chest,” Taumafai said.
“I am beyond excited and humbled to be given the chance to represent and play for my country. It is the opportunity of a lifetime and I'm ready to go.”
The 19-player squad is:
1. Elvinah Aaron
2. Joan Kuman
3. Christie Bulhage
4. Naomi Kaupa
5. Martha Karl
6. Shirley Joe
7. Fay Sogavo
8. Maima Wei
9. Delailah Ahose
10. Brenda Goro
11. Cathy Neap – captain
12. Carol Humeu
13. Della Audama
14. Janet Michael
15. Akosita Baru
16. Vero Waula
17. Anne Oiufa
18. Helen Abau
19. Jazmyn Taumafai
Coach: Dennis Miall
The match will be played at Callendar Park, Innisfail tonight and will be followed by Tonga v Italy.
Friday, October 20, 2017 - International Exhibition Rugby League Games at Callendar Park, Innisfail
4pm: Gates Open
5pm: State v State (Italian Heritage)
6.30pm: PNG Orchids v Mayor's Invitational
8pm: Italy v Tonga
Entry: $8 Adults; $4 Aged Pensioners; $2 Concession (5-15 years)
Food and drinks will be on sale
More information at the Cassowary Coast website HERE.
