Following a period of mounting anticipation across the region, the Singapore National Rugby League (SGNRL) has confirmed final details for the Men’s National Team’s historic expedition to Port Vila. The upcoming clash against Vanuatu on Saturday, June 6, at Korman Stadium represents more than just a return to the pitch; it is a landmark cross-regional exchange that will see the Memerang become the first international men’s side to play in Vanuatu in nearly a decade. With both nations eager to solidify their standing on the global stage, the fixture serves as a critical centerpiece for Singapore’s professional ambitions and Vanuatu’s national resurgence
National stadium showpiece
While previous Vanuatu Rugby League home internationals were held at the Port Vila Municipal Stadium, this year’s return sees the sport elevated to the country’s national stadium in Port Vila: Korman Stadium.
The move to the national stadium signals a new era for the sport in the Pacific. Since its significant redevelopment for the 2017 Pacific Mini Games and subsequent major upgrades funded by the FIFA Forward program, Korman Stadium has become one of the top venues in the country.
The road to international rankings
For the Memerang, the fixture at Korman Stadium is more than just a match; it is a critical step toward securing an official world ranking.
Currently riding an undefeated streak, which culminated in their 2025 Asian Championship victory; this sanctioned match serves as a vital component of Singapore’s formal application for membership with the International Rugby League (IRL).
The encounter also marks the first time a Singaporean side will test its mettle against a Pacific Island nation, known globally for their physicality and flair.
“Reaching out to a federation like Singapore was a way to reignite ourselves with a totally out-of-the-square opponent,” said Dave Lolo, Vice-President of the Vanuatu Rugby League, in an interview with ABC’s Pacific Beat.
“It makes it a truly inter-regional match.”
A Historic Debut for the Sunbirds
While the Men’s team chases rankings, the tour also features a landmark moment for women’s sport.
The Singapore Sunbirds will embark on their inaugural development tour, marking the first time a Singaporean Women’s Rugby League team has traveled overseas to compete.
The Sunbirds will face Vanuatu in a nine-a-side match on June 6, a fixture designed to provide high-level experience as part of a long-term strategy to establish Singapore as a leading force in Asian women’s rugby league.
To ensure the best possible preparation, the Sunbirds have utilised a dual-market training strategy, coordinating sessions across both Singapore and Australia.
Reviving a Pacific Legacy
The tour holds significant emotional weight for the hosts, who have not seen their men’s national team play on home soil since 2016.
The connection between the two nations is anchored by Singapore Men’s Head Coach Dane Campbell, who served as Vanuatu’s first-ever coach back in 2011.
“We’ve been off the grid for some time,” Lolo told Pacific Beat, noting that the return of international football is a “rebuilding tool” for Vanuatu following the disruptions of the pandemic.
“The search is on for players… we will train our squads in preparation for the Singapore exchange. That will involve structured training programmes to prepare ourselves for June.”
Strengthening Regional Ties
By initiating this “inter-regional” exchange, the SGNRL is positioning itself as a proactive leader in the growth of the game outside of traditional strongholds.
The tour provides a unique platform for Singaporean athletes to showcase their development on the international stage while fostering a partnership that benefits the growth of the sport across the Asia-Pacific region.
Match Schedule
Venue: Korman Stadium, Port Vila:
Saturday, June 6
Women’s Nines:
Singapore Sunbirds vs. Vanuatu Women’s National Team
1:30pm kick off
Men’s International:
Singapore Memerang vs. Vanuatu Men’s National Team
3pm kick off
