The Vanuatu Rugby League has officially unveiled their train-on squad for the upcoming international clash against the Singapore Memerang, scheduled for June 6 at Korman Stadium.
The match represents a historic homecoming for Vanuatu, serving as their first Men’s international since the 2018 Emerging Nations World Championship and their first fixture hosted in Vanuatu since 2016.
Deep international experience
The strength of the Vanuatu side lies in a core group of players who have maintained the national standard across multiple international windows including a four players who represented Vanuatu last time they played at home.
The 2016 veterans include Ben Lui, Daniel Kaltabang, Alickson Napakaurana, and Stephen Tang, all of which will provide valuable leadership for the squad’s newcomers.
Beyond the 2016 veterans, the squad is bolstered by the presence of Max Taleo, a reliable five-cap representative who has been a consistent performer through various competitive cycles, and Anro Kalpukai, who has established himself as a versatile asset with four international appearances under his belt.
This veteran core is further strengthened by the clinical finishing of Amani Arutahiki, a genuine strike weapon who has scored an impressive four tries in just three international matches. In the engine room, the Memerang will have to contend with the international grit of Andrew Kaltongga, a powerful forward with three caps who adds significant size to the middle of the park.
The technical aspects of the game will be managed by specialist hooker Anthony Delaivuna, whose familiarity with international systems over two previous caps will be vital for managing the ruck. Rounding out the experienced contingent is Malau Manaroto, who, despite being earlier in his journey with a single cap, has already been integrated into the high-pressure senior environment. Together, this group provides a formidable backbone to transition the squad’s debutants into the rigors of Test match football.
The next generation
While a seasoned core of veterans anchors the side, the Vanuatu Rugby League has signaled its intent to build for the future by naming a significant number of potential debutants in the wider squad.
Alongside these newcomers, the VRL has also included a dedicated development squad to train with the senior group, ensuring a sustainable pathway for the nation’s next generation of talent.
Train-on squad
- Amani Arutahiki
- Dandan Bakokoto
- Alickson Napakaurana
- Karl Karlsul
- George Toara
- Malau Manaroto
- Kaltack Lauru
- Harrison Nally
- Yannick Korikalo
- Anro Kalpukai
- Xiaohu Faerua
- Martin Tamata
- Kelete David
- Ben Lui
- Yorgen Ala
- Sale Vurobaravu
- Morgan Ala
- Kelepi Motoutorua
- Locklan Bani
- Batilemiu Lokai
- Anthony Delaivuna
- Daniel Kaltabang
- Pedro Sablan
- Andrew Kaltongga
- Steven Tanga
- Johnson Ronneth
- Keane Williams
- Cameron Ebbage
- Malakai Roqara
- Max Taleo
- Malcolm Apock
- Joshua Bradford
Development Players:
- Hamish Henderson
- John Tumukon
- Aru Cyprin
- Daniel Kenni
- Wilfred Bakokoto
- Oni Abbil
- Elijah Kalsuak
Match Details
Venue: Korman Stadium, Port Vila:
Saturday, June 6
Men’s International:
Singapore Memerang vs. Vanuatu Men’s National Team
3pm kick off
