The 2026 PNG Defence Force Commander’s Cup has entered its final stage, with the tournament moving into the semi-finals after five rounds of competition.

Headquarters is hosting this year’s tournament, which has brought together 10 PNGDF teams competing in a 15-a-side format.

Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Vitata said the Commander’s Cup has come a long way since it was first introduced in 2002 as a rugby sevens competition at Igam Barracks in Lae.

He said the tournament has since evolved through different formats, including sevens, tens and 15s, becoming an established part of PNGDF sporting culture.

“Since its inception, the format has evolved, alternating between sevens, tens and, of course, 15s. Over the years, the tournament has become deeply embedded into the cultural fabric of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.”

This year’s competition features two pools of five teams, with the tournament now moving into the semi-finals on Friday, October 2, before the finals on Monday, October 5.

At the end of the five preliminary rounds, Igam Crocs lead the standings on 17 points, followed by FSB Tigers on 16.

2RPIR and Basilisk are both on 14 points, while 1RPIR has 12 points.

LRRU is on eight points, followed by Headquarters Chiefs and Lombrum Sharks on six points each.

Goldie Warriors have one point, while ATW Eagles are yet to register a point.

Vitata said the standings will also help determine match winners where teams finish level, with the semi-finals providing a pathway for the top contenders to compete for the major trophies.

The semi-final fixtures are scheduled for Friday, with LRRU Troopers taking on Headquarters Chiefs, while 1RPIR is set to face Lombrum Sharks.

FSB Tigers will meet 2RPIR Muruks in another key clash, while Igam Crocs will take on Basilisk Marlins.

The final stage will feature five matches on Monday, with all participating teams given an opportunity to compete for silverware.

The five trophies up for grabs are the Commander’s Cup, Commander’s Cup Plate, Commander’s Cup Bowl, Commander’s Cup Shield and Commander’s Cup Pennant.

Vitata said the inclusive format is intended to maintain participation across the teams while reflecting the tournament’s wider focus on unity and collective representation within the PNGDF.