Irianese rugby team to play in Darwin

TIMIKA, Irian Jaya (JP): Irian Jaya is often in the news for the independence movement there, but most people are probably not aware that the province also has a world-class rugby team.

The team, known here as the Koteka Rugby team, will take part in the seventh International Rugby Championship in Darwin, Australia, from Jan. 29 to Jan. 31.

Coach Paul Guaglia said the championship would allow the team to play with seven players. "This type of play is most suitable for Papuans," he told The Jakarta Post on Tuesday. The House of Representatives is expected to officially change the province's name to Papua.

Paul, who is also one of the team's backs, said the Koteka Rugby team would be the sole representative from Indonesia in the international championship. He said the team was earlier invited to attend another international championship in Guam.

"The two championships are held at the same time so we picked the championship in Darwin," he said, adding that the team would depart for Australia on Jan. 29.

The team consists of six forwards (William Simopiaref, Leo Emani, Bonny Rumpaidus, George Deda, Anthon Wambrau and Senie Pakage), five backs (Petrus Rumaropen, Yerobeam Yarangga, Tofinus, Matius Krey and Paul) and two foreign players (Tony Sampel and Jasoon).

The team recently took part in the Bali International Ten Championship in October, finishing fourth out of 18 teams.(eba)