Wests Tigers NRLW mentor Craig Sandercock has described his appointment to coach the Orchids at RLWC2026 as a "full circle moment" afer spending time in PNG as a child.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) announced Sandercock as the new Head Coach of the Santos PNG Orchids on Friday.

Sandercock, who is currently the Head Coach of the Wests Tigers NRLW team, brings a wealth of elite-level experience to the Orchids program as they prepare for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.

He has an impressive coaching pedigree, including previous roles with the Manly Sea Eagles, Newcastle Knights, Hull KR (Super League), and various international programs.

He was instrumental in the development of Canterbury Bulldogs Women’s Program prior to their entry into the NRLW competition in 2025.

“I am genuinely excited by the opportunity to coach the PNG Orchids," Sandercock said.

"Having lived in Papua New Guinea for two years as a small child, this role feels like a full-circle moment for me.

"I am impressed by the potential of the local players - their natural talent, athleticism, and passion for rugby league are outstanding. I look forward
to working with all the players to harness that potential, build a competitive squad, and prepare strongly for the World Cup.”

The appointment of Sanderock signals a major step in the ongoing professionalisation and development of the PNG national women's team.

Photo: Wests Tigers mentor Craig Sandercock will take charge of PNG Orchids.

He is committed to working closely with the PNGRFL to ensure that his experience and his coaching knowledge and skills are shared with PNG based coaches, support staff and players to continue to grow the female game nationally.

Sandercock is also working closely with the PNGRFL High-Performance Unit and the local coaching staff to identify and prepare a strong squad for the RLWC2026.

The Orchids host France on October 17 in a double header with the Kumuls' opening World Cup match against Lebanon at Santos National Stadium.

The PNG sides then feature in another double-header in Port Moresby on October 24, with the Orchids meeting Fiji Bulikula and the Kumuls taking on Samoa.

The Orchids third RLWC2026 pool match is against the Kiwi Ferns at Cbus Super Stadium on October 31, while the Kumuls travel to Wollongong to play England on October 30.

PNGRFL Chairman, Sandis Tsaka, expressed his excitement about the appointment of Sandercock.

"We are delighted to welcome Craig Sandercock to lead the Orchids," he said.

"Craig's experience in the NRLW competition, coupled with his background in the Super League, makes him the ideal candidate to take the Orchids to the next level.

"His commitment to developing players and building a strong team culture aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of women’s rugby league in PNG."

The PNGRFL thanked Wests Tigers for their professional and support throughout the process of appointing a new coach after Tahnee Norris stood down in December.

Sandercock joined the Wests Tigers at the end of 2025, having previously served as an NRL Assistant at the Club between 2016 and 2019.

He also has extensive experience with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, Newcastle Knights and Hull KR.

Sandercock has been busy over the off-season, helping to rejuvenate the Club’s NRLW program.

Photo: The Orchids, captained by Elsie Albert, will play their opening two RLWC2026 matches at home. @NRL Photos

The experienced mentor has already established himself as a guiding hand across the Wests Tigers Pathways coaching ranks and will bring his wealth of knowledge to support PNG-based female rugby league coaches.

Wests Tigers Head of Women’s Football, Charmain Steventon welcomed Sandercock’s additional appointment.

“This appointment is testament to Craig’s qualities as a leader and coach. We’re proud to have him at the Club and excited to see him take on this opportunity,” Steventon said.

"We know Craig will make a fantastic contribution to the Orchids World Cup campaign, as well as the overall development of their international program.

“Everyone at the Club is really excited for Craig and wishes him the very best at the World Cup later this year.”

Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League.