Nickname Tamaraws Head coach Arwin Marcus RLIF ranking 32nd Location Philippines | Region Asia-Pacific Captain Luke Srama Founded 2011 | |
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Governing body Philippines National Rugby League | ||
The Philippines national rugby league team (nicknamed the Tamaraws) represent the Philippines in international rugby league football matches. They were established in 2011. In their short history the Tamaraws have been relatively successful, being repeated Asian Cup winners and regularly participating in the Cabramatta International 9s rugby league tournament.
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History
The Philippines National Rugby League (PNRL) was established in 2011 with a view of expanding rugby league further into Asia. The PNRL oversees the running of the national team, in 2011 it was announced that the Philippines would be playing their first game of rugby league at the 2012 at the Cabramatta International Nines, while also being involved in other organized international rugby league tournaments in the Asia-Pacific region. The Philippines have twice been involved in the Cabramatta International 9s rugby league tournament, in 2012 they defeated Burwood-North Ryde 22-18 to take the Bowl Trophy. In 2012 the Philippines won over Thailand at the 2012 Rugby League Asian Cup. The match was the first rugby league international played in Asia.
In 2013 they selected 3 teams to take part in the tournament.
In 2014 the Philippines entered four teams: the first side, two development sides, and an under 20's side.
Asian Cup
The Philippines made their international rugby league debut in Bangkok on October 21, 2012 with a match against Thailand, who were also making their international debut. Aided by a host of Australian-based players, Philippines won the match 86-0 in the first Rugby League Asian Cup.
Former players
Players who have played for the national team