The Wests Tigers would like to congratulate Craig Sandercock on his appointment as Head Coach of the PNG National Women’s team – the Orchids – ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Sandercock will fulfil his obligations to the Orchids alongside his current role as Head Coach of the Wests Tigers NRLW side.
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.
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.
Charmain Steventon Head of Women's Football
“Everyone at the Club is really excited for Craig and wishes him the very best at the World Cup later this year.”
Sandercock spent two years living in Papua New Guinea growing up and is excited about the honour of coaching the national side.
“I am genuinely excited by the opportunity to coach the PNG Orchids. Having lived in Papua New Guinea for two years as a small child, this role feels like a full-circle moment for me,” Sandercock said.
“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.”
