Junior Orchids skipper Janique Mili says patience and focus will be key as the team prepares to take the field and represent Papua New Guinea in the 2026 Prime Minister's XIII match tomorrow.

The 18-year-old, who is based in Brisbane and plays in her junior rugby league with Logan Brothers, is representing the Junior Orchids for the second time.

Mili has been given the honour of captaining the side this year and says she is proud to lead the team.

“It’s a privilege. It’s a huge honour to be able to have that role of leading the team out,” Mili said.

Her message to her teammates ahead of the match is simple — remain patient and stay focused in both attack and defence.

Mili also hopes the Junior Orchids can inspire young girls across Papua New Guinea to pursue rugby league and dream of representing their country.

“I just hope we’re doing the right things, and we’re paving the way for them,” she said.

“There are a lot of amazing little girls out there that hopefully one day can take this field and also do the country proud.”

With social media and outside criticism often creating distractions for young athletes, Mili says the team has been encouraged to focus on the task ahead rather than listen to negativity.

“At the end of the day, those people that are giving negativity, they’re not the ones that represent the country. We are,” she said.

Her message to young people chasing their sporting dreams is to stay true to themselves and not allow others to discourage them.

“Don’t care about what anyone says, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Just keep being you.”

And for the supporters back home, Mili has one simple message.

“Just thank you, and hopefully we can bring one home for our country.”