by Dylan Wolfgramm

AFL Fiji’s men side arrived in Melbourne last night ahead of their third International Cup appearance. Hopes are high as within the team with Fiji sending its best side to date, hoping to move up in ranking and provide suitable competition to the powerhouses of international football.

Fiji Tribe have got what they wanted and move up to Division One in 2017 and will face France, New Zealand, South Africa and Great Britain in the pool game stages, fighting to snap a top three position.

The Road to IC17

Fiji Tribe have built a powerful team with strength, speed, agility and defensive capability which sets up their attack. AFL Fiji has had a successful season with the Raiwaqa Crows going back to back for the first time in AFL Fiji’s short history.  From 2011 to 2014, the Tribe have experienced players returning and with their leaders in Jiuta Vateitei, Alipate Navuso, Mesake Koroi, Jeff Pauli, Solo Navuso, Inoke Ratu and Pate Seilawa returning to their third International Cup, Fiji will prove to be a true competitor.  
 

The players had been training as a squad since the end of 2016 and with the team being cut to 25 from 50, endurance and resistance was the key factor in who made the final team.  The skill work of the Fiji sides were always the weaknesses in previous Cups but with most players hitting their peak in 2017, the AFL Fiji Powerade Cup tuned the boys well. 

Players to watch
 

Jiuta Vateitei
Fiji’s prime mid-fielder with an elite right foot, great hands and a big engine. Entering his third International Cup, he has been with AFL Fiji since its birth in 2009.  After coming off a dominant season with Premiers Raiwaqa Crows, this will be Jiuta’s best chance to prove to the world that he deserves to be amongst the world’s best.
Player comparison: Trent Cotchin (Richmond)
 

Mesake Koroi
A wonderful lead up forward who can find the ball in any area of the ground but can also transition to mid-field if need be. Powerful hands, leap and the teams most accurate kick up forward, he will prove to be a difference. Was Fiji’s best player in 2011 and 2014.
Player comparison: Jarryd Roughhead (Hawthorn)
 

John Valetiri
Their fearless leader down back who controls the back-line. Big, tall and a great defender who can win his own ball and reads the play well.  Look to him to create run and defend first.  Kicking will be his weakness however; opposition forwards will have a big task to take him out of the game.
Player comparison: Daniel Merrett (Brisbane Lions)

IC17 Expectation
 

Fiji Tribe will have a hard road to the finals when they face New Zealand, South Africa and Great Britain however all winnable matches if they can keep their discipline and take every opportunity.  A top 5 finish will be a great success.

Team List
• Alipate Kiti,
• Alipate Navuso,
• Atunaisa Lewanavanua,
• Dylan Wolfgramm
• Filipe Valesu,
• Isei Moses,
• Isimeli Qiolevu,
• Jeffery Pauli,
• Jerry T,
• Jonathan Macanawai
• Jiuta Vateitei,
• John Valetiri,
• Josese Rokoli,
• Kaiyava Davui,
• Leone Maiqereqere,
• Lorima Bativoli,
• Mesake Koroi,
• Nathan Wesley,
• Nemani Waqa,
• Nimilote Qio,
• Penisoni Tuiova,
• Pita Wilson,
• Semesa Salavou,
• Solomoni Cati,
• Solomoni Navuso,
• Sulio Magiti,
• Yabaki Cakautini,
• Laisiasa Karuya,
• Peni Matewai,
• Peni Turagabeci,
• Roko Waqabaca,
• Pate Seilawa,
• Inoke Ratu
 

Schedule Rounds 1-4

International Cup 2017 & World Footy News World Rankings

Two new Nations will become fully ranked on WFN World Rankings in the Round one of IC17.

Indonesia’s Garudas and Great Britain’s Swans both play their eighth qualifying International match in Round 1 at this year’s International Cup.

Indonesia will become the 22nd nation to be fully ranked on WFN World Rankings when they play International Footy newcomer Sri Lanka on day one of the IC and if they win as expected will slot into 14th place behind Croatia.

Great Britain will likewise become the 6th nation to be fully ranked on WFN World Rankings (Women) when they tackle Pakistan “Dragoons” in the very first match of the competition on Sunday 6th August. The Swans have proven to be a revelation since bursting onto the International Footy scene, twice defeating and drawing once with Ireland to win the Inaugural Women’s European Championships in 2016. A Swans win over Pakistan will see them enter the ranks (briefly) in 3rd place behind Canada. Further matches during the day will probably see them end the day in 4th or 5th place.

WFN World Ranking Predictions for Round One:

Unlike IC14 where almost all of the opening Round matches were those where the rating gap exceeded 10.00 rating points (when rating gap exceeds 10.00 points no advantage is gained by higher ranked nation and likewise no points are lost by the lower ranked nation) there were little or no points exchanges, and no rises or falls in ranks, all but one of IC17 Round 1 pairings will see points exchanges take place and a number of rises and falls in Rank. Should be a cracker of a round of footy with some close tussles and upsets, pity I’m missing some of the morning’s matches.

Round 1, Match 1: South Africa 6th (49.63 rating points) v. Great Britain 7th (48.38) only previous meeting at IC11 South Africa defeated Great Britain, and if the Lions repeat the dose +/- 2.63 rating points are exchanged and South Africa will jump to 3rd place and the Bulldogs will fall one place to 8th rank. Remember: The Ranking Scheme predicts that higher ranked nations will win more often than not, however, as the rating gap is only 1.25 rating points an upset would see Great Britain rise to 5th and South Africa would fall to eighth.

Round 1, Match 2: Papua New Guinea 2nd (57.66) v. Ireland 4th (53.98). Match up 2-2, who can forget the GF IC14. An Irish victory would see these nations swap places in the ranks (subject to New Zealand v. Nauru result).

Round 1, Match 3: Canada 9th (46.69) v. United States 8th (47.61) Rating gap 0.92, USA has the wood on Canada 14-1 and 3-0 at IC’s. USA win could see them climb to 7th and the Northwind just staying clear of Denmark in 9th. A Canada upset will see a max +/- 3.00 points exchange and a leap to 6th place whilst Revolution falls to 9th place.

Round 1, Match 4: Fiji 13th (40.18) v. France 14th (39.09) Rating gap 1.09, Fiji defeated France in their only match-up at IC11. A Fiji win would see the Tribe climb above Tonga into 12th place and France take a dive to 17th place below Japan. However, a France win will see the Coqs climb to 11th just below Denmark and Fiji fall to 16th place.

Round 1, Match 5: New Zealand 3rd (55.09) v. Nauru 5th (53.30) rating gap 1.79, surprisingly the only meeting of these Pacific Ocean Nations was way back in 1995 at the Arafura Games, New Zealand (Falcons) being victorious. A New Zealand (Hawks) victory would send Nauru down to 7th or eighth, the Hawks remaining in 2nd place. If the Chiefs are victorious a swap of Ranks will occur 5th for 3rd & vv.

Of course, we must remember that all nations currently ranked below France at 14th will fall one place as Indonesia enters the World Ranks as a full member with their first up match v Sri Lanka in Division 2.

We’ll have a look at Division 2 Men and the Ladies Ranking predictions tomorrow. ...

The French Coqs will take the field in Division 1 of the IC17 this month, their third International Cup campaign in succession. Whilst they have a tough draw in the pool rounds, the French will be very keen to make an impression and make a mark as an up-and-coming footy nation.

The Country and Australian rules football

Some footy was played by Australian soldiers in France during WW1, an event that nowadays is celebrated each year with the French national side taking on the Aussie Spirit selection in Villers-Bretonneux each Anzec Day.

The modern era of Footy in France saw some matches played in the 1990s in Paris and Normandy, but nothing concrete formed until the Strasbourg Kangourous in 2005. They competed in the German national league for one season, but the formation of teams in Paris and the south of France saw a French national scene grow to the point where the first national championship was played in 2008. Since then, footy in France has steadily grown with clubs across the country, including both men's and women's sides. The current national men's comp champions are the ALFA Lions, from the central city of Lyon.

On the international scene, France has been present to most of the major European competitions since the 2005 Euro Cup in London and have enjoyed some success. The team first travelled to the Australia for the IC11 where they had an impressive run in Division 2, culminating with a second place. They have been consistent improvers, last year taking 5th position in the Euro Cup.

The Squad and its Road to IC17

Coach Andrew Unsworth grew up in Perth in a keen footy family, with his grandfather having played for WAFL side South Fremantle. His playing experience ranged from Dalkeith Nedlands in Perth, then later with Sydney University from 05-09.

Unsworth's coaching experience started in Shanghai, managing one of the three teams there, before he moved to France. As he says, "When I arrived in Paris, they were looking for someone to take the lead at training so I helped out. I then became coach of the second Paris team, the Cockatoos and was asked to take the reigns of the French team. I still play for the Cockatoos but I'm more passionate about helping the game grow in France."

"Our ambition is simple, to improve. Our local league has really grown and we want to demonstrate that on the world stage. The team is quite different to the last IC with only a handful of players that have been to Australia before. Having said that, all the players know each other well so I'm looking forward to see us working together and having a strong cohesion."

"We have selected the best players from around France who have performed well for their respective clubs in France, during the Euro Cup or in the ANZAC Cup in Villers Bretonneux. All clubs from around France are represented, which is also a great sign that all clubs are developing local talent."

The squad has 27 players travelling from France, with 1 Australian-based player in Gregoire Patacq who will appear in his third International Cup.

Players to watch

There are several players to keep an eye on. Two experienced players in defence, captain Julien Gil (captain) and Sylvain Maylie, were both at IC14 and are strong leaders on and off the field. They are joined by a new wave of players, who have impressed in the French league in just their second season of footy, such as Ludo Barrat (forward), Benoit Treuillet (midfield) and Pierre Lechales (defender). Lastly, an x-factor up forward will be Jeremy Sardin who played in Adelaide for a few months last year, an experience which will be invaluable.

Prognostication

The French face a challenging draw - Fiji, Ireland, Nauru and the USA in their group stages. Fiji would look to be the most winnable of those match-ups, with the Irish, Nauruans and US among the strongest sides in the competition. However, they will be eager to impress and may pull off a few upsets.

The Squad

Julien Gil – Toulouse Hawks

Sylain Maylie – Blagnac Aviators

Mathieu Ostorero – ALFA Lions

Fabien Floch – Toulouse Hawks

Francois Daniel – Paris Cockatoos

Pierre Leschasles – ALFA Lions

Cyrille Gandolfo – Toulouse Hawks

Jacob Raiwalui – Paris Cockatoos

Benoit Treuillet – Bordeaux Bombers

Jeremy Sardin – Perpignan Tigers

Ludo Barrat – Toulouse Hawks

Franck Nussbaumer – Paris Cockerels

Vincent Monnier – Bordeaux Bombers

Anthony Girard – Blagnac Aviators

Marco Pinto – Bordeaux Bombers

Raphael Ubeda – Bordeaux Bombers

Pierre Boscart – Paris Cockerels

Thomas Depondt – ALFA Lions

Gregoire Patacq – South Australia

Clement Bouchet – Paris Cockatoos

Julien Dagois – Paris Cockatoos

Maxime Favero – Cergy Coyotes

Simon Mondin – Toulouse Hawks

Thomas Crepin – Cergy Coyotes

Nicolas Boche – ALFA Lions

Anthony Bernard – Perpignan Tigers

Sam Rat – Bordeaux Bombers

Stephane Wezel – Toulouse Hawks

Pierre Napoleon – ALFA Lions ...

1. Where is home and who is your home club?

Originally, I am from Goettingen, Germany, however I have lived in Australia for four years now. I joined my team, the Sydney Uni Bombers, this season.

2. How many years have you been involved in Australian Rules football?

After my arrival in Perth in March 2013, I joined the SNESA Angels, now Perth Angels Football Club. I played three seasons with my Perth team before moving to NSW, where I joined the Sydney Uni Bombers this year. I have completed a coaching course and have helped out with football coaching for people with impairments in WA for a brief period of time before moving over east.

 3.       What is your favourite or best playing position?

My favourite position on the field is the wing, however I might have a reputation in WA for my tagging and shepherding from the times when I have been playing in the back line. On my current team, I contribute best in the half back position.

4.           How will your team go at IC17?

Our team shows strong enthusiasm and passion for the sport mixed with great skill in all players. I believe that anything is possible and that we can win the Cup, which of course is our aspiration. No matter whether we win the Grand Final or the wooden spoon, I know that we will have a fantastic time at the IC17 as we are bringing our best play full of heart to the competition.

5.           Which AFL club do you follow, if any?

The best club of course! Flying high with the West Coast Eagles since 2004!

6.           Do you have anything else you would want to achieve or gain from the IC17?

To play with everyone except Australians in a competition will give me a better understanding where the sport has evolved to internationally. I am excited about all the new friends I am already making just by participating in this fantastic competition. As a longer-term vision I hope that the IC17 helps yet again in igniting even more passion for this fast-paced, challenging and exciting sport in people from more countries in the world. ...

 The Country and Australian Football.

Indonesia is a sovereign state in South East Asia and Oceania. Indonesia is an archipelago comprising some 17,000 islands with a population of over 238 million people, making it the world's fourth most populous country.

Indonesia lies between latitudes 11°S and 6°N, and longitudes 95°E and 141°E. It consists of 17,508 islands, about 6,000 of which are inhabited. These are scattered either side of the equator. The largest are Java, Sumatra, Borneo (shared with Brunei and Malaysia), New Guinea (shared with Papua New Guinea), and Sulawesi. Indonesia shares land borders with Malaysia on Borneo, Papua New Guinea on the island of New Guinea, and East Timor on the island of Timor. Indonesia shares maritime borders across narrow straits with Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Palau to the north, and with Australia to the south. The capital, Jakarta, is on Java and is the nation's largest city.

The Indonesian archipelago has been an important trade region since at least the 7th century initially with China and India when Buddhist and Hindu Kingdoms flourished. Indonesian history has been influenced by foreign powers drawn to its natural resources. Muslim traders brought the now-dominant Islam, while European powers brought Christianity and fought one another to monopolize trade in the Spice Islands of Maluku. Following three and a half centuries of Dutch colonialism, Indonesia secured its independence after World War II.

Despite its large population and densely populated regions, Indonesia has vast areas of wilderness that support the world's second highest level of biodiversity.

Indonesia has at least 150 active volcanoes, including Krakatoa and Tambora, both famous for their devastating eruptions in the 19th century. The eruption of the Toba supervolcano, approximately 70,000 years ago, was one of the largest eruptions ever, and a global catastrophe. Recent disasters due to seismic activity include the 2004 tsunami that killed an estimated 167,736 in northern Sumatra and the Yogyakarta earthquake in 2006. However, volcanic ash is a major contributor to the high agricultural fertility that has historically sustained the high population densities of Java and Bali.

Footy in Indonesia had its genesis when in 1995 the Jakarta Bintangs were founded by ex-pat Australians. The Bali Geckoes followed around 1997, again with mainly ex-pat Australians, later establishing the Bali 9’s competition. In 2008 the Borneo Bears were established in Balikpapan, similarly by ex-pat Aussies. In 2009 the Bintangs, Geckoes and Bears established AFL Indonesia with plans to further develop footy amongst native Indonesians. On Anzac Day 2013 an all Indonesian Jakarta Garuda’s* played an all Indonesian Borneo Bears also in 2013 a full–time Development Officer was appointed. Australia Day 2014 the Garuda’s and Bears played the Bintangs (mainly ex-pats) in a one-day tournament where well over 130 people attended.

Indonesia’s International Cup 2014 Debut

The Garuda’s introduction to International Footy certainly couldn’t be said to be auspicious, suffering over 200 points thrashings from footy powerhouse Nauru and then Fiji and fairing only slightly better losing by some 100 points to France in the Pool rounds. As Division 2 competitors their fourth loss came at the hands of Sweden 60 to 32, but finally success came with a 54 to 8 win over India.

Indonesia finished 17th at IC14 and the highest ranked provisional nation in the World Rankings with 32.66 rating points. The Garuda’s haven’t rested on their laurels since IC14 though, winning the Inaugural All Asia Championships in Saigon, Vietnam in October 2016 defeating both IndoChina and China Red Dragons. The Garuda’s will go into IC17 only one match away from becoming fully ranked, currently holding 36.58 rating points.

The Team

Indonesia Garuda’s at International Cup 2017

Indonesia drew Pool A in Division 2 along with Cup debutantes Croatia and Sri Lanka and fellow All Asia Championship nation China. Indonesia’s IC17 outlook as “seasoned” international contestants appears to be much more promising than last time.

Match 1:First opponent is newcomer Sri Lanka, very much an unknown quantity, although boasting some ex-rugby players it is Sri Lanka’s first foray into International footy so we should see the Garuda’s prevail. It should also be noted that Indonesia will become fully ranked at about 13th or 14th place on the World Rankings at the conclusion of this match. Score 1-0

Match 2: Croatia Knights: World Ranking 12th with 40.35 rating points, International match record 4-0-4. Cup debutante Croatia is current Euro Cup 9’s Champion a noted big and strong team, so could be a much tougher matchup for the Garuda’s. All Croatia’s previous opponents are fellow European nations and most matches are played at nine-a-side so IC full team matches advantages Indonesia. World Ranking scheme says higher ranked teams will win more often than not. Croatia Knights to win, just. Score 1-1

Match 3: China Red Dragons: World Ranking 19th with 33.32 rating points, International match record 4-0-13. Garuda’s and China Red Dragons have met only once at 2016 All Asia Champs with the Garuda’s running out winners. World Ranking scheme suggests higher ranked nations will win more often than not. Garuda’s to win, a close one though. Score 2-1

*Garuda: a large mythical bird, or bird-like creature, or humanoid bird that appears in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology.

...

Cam Holmes takes a look at the Rankings headed into IC17 and how they suggest the matches will pan out in Division 2

International Cup 2017 & World Footy News World Rankings

Division 2 WFN World Ranking Predictions Round 1

Round 1, Match 1: Indonesia Provisional (36.58) v. Sri Lanka Provisional (40.00 Starting Points). Indonesia contested IC14 with 1-4 record, the win being against India, and won the Inaugural All Asia Championships in 2016 with wins over China and Team IndoChina whereas Sri Lanka are making their debut in International footy. Although Sri Lanka is “higher” rated, Indonesia should prevail and will enter the Rankings in 14th place with 39.58 rating points. (no debutante nation has won first match on debut)

Round 1, Match 2: Pakistan Provisional (32.35) v. Germany 15th (37.44) rating gap 5.09, Germany has a 7-13 international record all matches against European nations, whilst Pakistan is 1-4 with the win over India at IC14.

The Ranking Scheme predicts that higher ranked nations will win more often than not, Germany will climb above France but stay at 15th place courtesy of Indonesia entering the ranks. A Pakistan win would push Germany down to 18th place and Pakistan one game away from Full Ranking.

Round 1, Match 3: Croatia 12th (40.35) v. China 19th (33.32) rating gap 7.03, The Knights are making their IC debut and are 4-4 at 18-a-side whilst China have a 5-13 international record. Croatia will creep a little closer to Tonga (+/-0.89 points exchanged) but slip to 13th (curtesy of Indonesia entering the ranks) with a win and China likewise slipping one place to 20th (Indonesia again). However, if China kicks the odds they will rise above Sweden and Croatia will fall to between China and Sweden.

Round 1, Match 4: Japan 16th (37.17) v. India 21st (23.01) rating gap 14.16, therefore no points exchange and no movement in Rank except Indonesia effect so Japan down to 17th and India to 22nd.

Women’s Division WFN World Ranking Predictions for Round 1. 

Welcome to the International Cup, Great Britain Swans, European Crusaders and PakistanDragoons and welcome back PNG Flames

Round 1, Match 1: Great Britain #1 Provisional (44.94) v. Pakistan International Debut (40.00 starting points)

The Swans will become Fully Ranked in 4th place with 46.46 rating points if history and the Ranking Scheme holds true. If Pakistan pulls off biggest upset of the day the Swans would enter at 6th place only.

Round 1, Match 2: Canada 2nd (53.38) v. Fiji #2 provisional (40.50) rating gap > 10.00 so no advantage gained by the Northern Lights nor any loss of points by Fiji. A Vonu upset would see Canada lose 3.00 rating points but remain in 2nd Place.

Round 1, Match 3: Papua New Guinea #4 Provisional (33.51) v. European Crusaders #3 provisional (36.67)

Rating gap 3.16, Very interesting match as Ranking Scheme says higher ranked nations will win more often than not. Could this match be one of the “nots”ω The Crusaders are a “mixed’” team but most have played together at Inaugural Women’s European Championships in 2016 and the Flames are returning to the IC after a hiatus.

As both nations are provisional a Crusaders win will see them creep closer the Vonu, However, if the Flames win (+/-3.00 points exchanged) a swap in position will take place. Both nations will be eager to retain/gain as many rating points as possible because they will both enter the Full Ranks before the end of the IC competition.

Round 1, Match 4: Ireland 4th (43.62) v. United States 3rd (47.08) only met once before at IC11 with Ireland the winner, a repeat will see the Banshees jump to 3rd and Freedom slip to 5th. Ranking Scheme ‘rules’ Freedom retains 2nd Place and Ireland slide to 6th.

All in all a very exciting round with plenty of rating points being exchanged and considerable movement up and down the Ranks. ...

Sri Lanka is one of the newest footy nations on the world footy scene.  There is no known history of the game being played in Sri Lanka on a regular or intermittent basis.  Despite the fact that Sri Lanka is a top level competitor in modern day cricket, those cricket grounds in Sri Lanka have not had the sight of four white posts standing at either end. Now they not only have a footy team, but make their International Cup debut this Sunday.

The Country and Australian Football

The country is officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, historically called Ceylon, is an island country in South Asia. Sri Lanka has maritime borders with India to the northwest and the Maldives to the southwest.

Sri Lanka's documented history spans 3,000 years, with evidence of pre-historic human settlements dating back to at least 125,000 years. Its geographic location and deep harbours made it of great strategic importance from the time of the ancient Silk Road through to World War II. Sri Lanka was known from the beginning of British colonial rule until 1972 as Ceylon. Sri Lanka's recent history has been marred by a thirty-year civil war which decisively ended when the Sri Lankan military defeated the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009.

There is a large number of people of Sri Lankan heritage in Australia. The following from www.museumvictoria.com.au  Sri Lankans (formerly referred to as Ceylonese) have been settling in Victoria since the 19th century. They were first counted in the 1871 census, when 58 people were recorded. Like Sri Lankan settlers elsewhere in Australia, they probably immigrated as labourers or gold prospectors.

The community began to increase after World War II. Sri Lanka gained independence from England in 1948, and many more Sri Lankan Burghers began to emigrate to English-speaking countries, including Australia. By 1966, the Sri Lankan community in Victoria had risen to 3,126, most of them Burghers. The end of the White Australia Policy in 1973 saw increasing numbers of Sinhalese and Tamil settlers in Victoria. By 1976, 9,061 Victorians were of Sri Lankan birth.
 

Today, Sri Lankans make up the eighth largest immigrant group in Victoria, with 43,991 people recorded in the 2011 census. The community is culturally diverse, reflected in the languages spoken at home: 85% speak Sinhalese, 16% speak Tamil, and most others speak English. Religious diversity follows a similar pattern, with 70% Buddhist, 12% Hindu and 18% Christian.

So while there are plenty of Sri Lankans have played Aussie rules at suburban or country level in Australia.  No one has ever taken the game back to Sri Lanka and established the game there.

Some VFL/AFL players of Sri Lankan heritage have come through the system.   

Hayden Crozier plays for Fremantle in the AFL and has a Sri Lankan father.

Craig Jacotine played for Collingwood and both his parents were born in Sri Lanka.

Enrico (Rick) Misso was born in Sri Lanka and moved to Australia as a child, he played for St Kilda in 1985.  He is also the coach of the Sri Lankan team.  Rick is a former ruckman, a big man, and his Sri Lankan team literally and metaphorically look up to him and he is clearly a well respected leader. 

Ranga Ediriwickrama born in NSW of Sri Lankan parents and was drafted with Round 4, Pick #60 2008 Rookie Draft by Geelong Cats (they had first access to him as a NSW scholarship listed player).  He did not play an AFL game after an injury riddled time with the Cats.  

Footy's Beginnings

Brothers Prabath Fonseka and Anurudda Fonseka saw that footy was happening around the world, and that the world was coming to Australia to play in the International Cup.  They took it upon themselves to get footy going in Sri Lanka and as part of that to get a Sri Lankan team to play at the 2017 International Cup.

Last year they travelled to Sri Lanka with the aim of finding Sri Lankans to play the game targeting rugby players in a talent search. They conducted clinics to find the talent to fill out their team and were assisted by players from Essendon (Courtenay Dempsey) and Carlton (Ed Curnow, Harry McKay and Jesse Glass-McCasker) on the ground in Sri Lanka.

Once they found a large group of interested and talented players, they narrowed the squad and knew they could make it happen.  They left the group to train and prepare and returned to Melbourne. In Melbourne they held fundraising activities and worked on finding eligible Sri Lankans to fill out their IC squad. 

Now both groups have come together in Melbourne and are prepared to make their debut playing their first international footy matches in the International Cup starting Sunday.

The Team

...

The Footy Almanac and World Footy News and the North Fitzroy Arms Hotel invite you to enjoy a classic Melbourne experience at the Odd Friday Lunch to celebrate the International Cup.

Join Carlton legend Percy Jones (249 games and three premierships) and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Melbourne corner pub, with superb dining room, real fires, lots of Fitzroy Football Club and Carlton Football Club art and photos. This is a genuine, time-honoured Melbourne lunch experience.

Hosted by John Harms, writer and champion luncher.

Where: North Fitzroy Arms Hotel, 296 Rae St, North Fitzroy
When: Friday, August 11
Time:   12.30pm
Three courses for $40
Drinks at bar prices

To RSVP please Email rsvp@footyalmanac.com.au

Get the tram:
Tram 11, Stop 21 (Alfred Crescent) or Tram 96, Stop 20 (Richardson Street)

Follow our International Cup coverage at:
www.footyalmanac.com.au and www.worldfootynews.com ...

1. Where is home and who is your home club?

Hi !!! My name is Zuber Baig. Yes, I am from Mumbai, Maharashtra - that's in India - and my favourite club back in India is the Maharashtra Giants.

2. How many years have you been involved in Australian Rules football?

So I have started in 2012, then I represented my state team - Maharashtra Giants - in 2013 and in 2014 I was shortlisted for the AFL India team for IC14. I am glad again to be a part of team in IC17 as well.

3. What is your favourite or best playing position?

My favourite position is Full-Forward (because I love scoring goals) back in India but now I am playing as a back pocket this time in IC17.

4. How will your team go at IC17?

The team is very confident and are ready to chase every opponent in IC17. We are more excited about the game and positive to be on top of the table.

5. Which AFL club do you follow, if any?

I follow the Richmond Tiger the most because I love Trent Cotchin (#9) and Dustin Martin (#4) a lot.

6. Do you have anything else you would want to achieve or gain from the IC17?

It’s always a good learning experience every time you play in IC17 and to go back home pass the message to every player in India. ...

2017 will see Pakistan competing as the Shaheens (though it was earlier suggested the Dragoons would be the name), a team selected from across Pakistan in the AFL Pakistan. The Pakistan women's team will definitely be developmental as it has been in operation for less than one year.

The team is made up of athletes that have variously competed in numerous sports before coming to the Australian game. While the team has been working towards the International Cup, confirmation of their attendance and obtaining visas came very close to tournament kickoff.

History of Football in Pakistan

Australian football has been played in Pakistan since 2006, starting with the creation of the Australian Rules Football Federation of Pakistan, based in the city of Mingora, Swat Valley. Mingora is probably one of the most unlikely of places to establish Australian Football with the Swat valley being in the Northern extension of Pakistan at the base of of Himilayan mountains sandwitched between Kashmir and Afganistan. Mumtaz Ali Khan was instrumental in setting up the initial competition through the Tanzeem-E-Insidad-E-Manshyiate organisation (TIM) and Mumtaz became the organisation's first President. TIM is a group combating drug use through seminars, medical centres and sporting tournaments.

May 2006, the city of Mingora, hosted a tournament held by the Tanzeem-e-Insidad-e-Manashyiate organisation between 4 school and college-based teams. Mumtaz Ali Khan TIM said that his organisation, TIM, has been using sport as a tool against drugs in society since 2001-02. The connection to Australian Rules stems from his having once seen the game on television via a sports channel, becoming interested and deciding to begin the game in the Swat area - beginning with school and college level students.

This group approached Aussie Rules International for balls and other materials. Four sides representing the Tanzeem-e-Insidad-e-Manashyiate (the Swords), the Swat Public School (the Eagles), the Jehan-Zeb College (the Dolphins) and the Government High School No3 (the Bulls) competed.

June 2006, the Swat Continental Hotel in Mingora, hosted the 'Seminar for the development of Australian Rules football in Pakistan' run by Mumtaz Ali Khan, and attended by the federation's executive members, school and college-level students and numerous volunteers had an underlying theme of 'helping youths resist drugs'. During the seminar, Mumtaz Ali Khan expressed his thrill that Pakistan had joined the growing list of football-playing nations.

They had a four-team High School/College competition, regular fixtures and around 100 players on their lists. In another positive, Naeem Ullah Khan, General Secretary for the Federation, announced that football would be used to preach peace in the area, with plans to spread the game to nearby Afghanistan, Kashmir and Central Asia. It is also hoped the sport would foster Australia-Pakistan relations. Mumtaz Ali Khan thanked the many people who have been involved with the game to date, but stressed that they still faced an uphill battle and that greater assistance was needed in maintaining and growing the sport.

November 2006, Mumtaz Ali Khan opted to vacate the role of President and take on a more active role as Programme Development Officer, in the hope of further encouraging the sport's growth throughout Pakistan. Habib ul Haq, Vice President at the time, took up the role of President. Two more clubs had been established, one in Peshawar (the Colours) and one at the University of Malakand have joined the four team round-robin competition in Mingora, where four clubs attended. Plans were made for mirror competitions elsewhere in Pakistan and in Afghanistan and Kashmir.
 

That made for 6 football teams in Pakistan at the time, all located in the North-West Frontier Province. Five of those are based around educational institutions.

In 2007, the ARFFP changed their name to AFL Pakistan. It was hoped that this new name and image would make them a more attractive organisation to potential sponsors.

November 2014, Tayyab Chattha and others effectively rebooted AFL Pakistan with help of the Australian High Commission Islamabad staff.
A number or tournaments were held in 2015 cuminating in the first National Championships. The 1st National Australian Football Championship of Pakistan where held on 27th~28th October 2016 played at the  Jinnah Stadium ,Pakistan Sports Complex Islamabad.

Ten teams from all over Pakistan participated. The final match was played between the Islamabad Tigers and the Rawalpindi Lions. In attendance was the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan as chief guest and well as the Ambassador of Tajikistan, the Ambassador of Portugal and diplomats from Russia, Brazil, Oman and other dignitaries. Kashif Bouns presented the cup for AFL Australia and also did commentary on the match. The final Match was live telecast on Pakistan National Sports TV around the world.
 

The Islamabad Tigers starred on their first outing showing fabulous clean ball skills, gut running and determination to overcome the Rawalpindi Lions in a close final by 34 to 30 points.

There were 15 club football in Pakistan at the time, all located in different cities, 4 clubs in Islamabad, 4 clubs in Rawalpindi 2 clubs in Gujranwala, and also including 4 girls club.
 

Prominent clubs are: Islamabad Tigers, Islamabad Rising Stars, Junoon AFC, Rawal AFC, Morghah Queen AFC, Gujranwala AFC, Haiderabad AFC, Faisalabad AFC and Lahore AFC.

Pakistan the country:

Pakistan, in the eyes of Westerners. is one of the lesser known countries. Few people appreciate the rich history of Pakistan which has been ruled by numerous empires and dynasties, including the Persian Achaemenid Empire, Alexander of Macedonia, the Indian Mauryan Empire, the Arab Umayyad Caliphate, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mongol Empire, the Mughal Empire, the Durrani Empire, the Sikh Empire, and most recently, the British Empire. Most people are unaware of the bloody split from India in 1947 that resulted in millions of deaths in the creation of East and West Pakistan. West Pakistan became Pakistan in 1971 with the Independence of East Pakistan to become the country of Bangladesh.

Geographically Pakistan consists of the Indus River basin that collects water from the Himilayan mountains and transports it to the rich Indus delta before entering the Arabian Sea. The name "Indus" gives rise to the name "India" and the Punjab is a large part of Pakistan.

The Team

Michael Gallus from Footy's 4 All was this week named as the coach of the team (pictured below). 

CAPTAIN: MYRA AHMAD

TEAM MANAGER: TAYYAB CHATTHA

Prospects:

The women's team has been competing for less than a year and is drawn from a pool of 70~100 women. They will struggle as most of the women's teams are well established and proficient. Even the less developed teams will have an advantage over the Pakistan team.  We do not expect them to win a match in the first three rounds, but we do expect them to learn quickly and use this tour to benchmark where they need to get to in the years to come.
 

Schedule

Image from Shaheens Sporting and Social Club Facebook Group ...

The 2017 international Cup will see Pakistan competing once again as the Shaheens, a team that was to be selected from across Pakistan and not so much as the 2014 Pakistan Shaheens who were largely Melbourne based Pakistani nationals.

Unfortunately though, only four of the players training in Pakistan were granted visas.  Another five that as far as we know were not part of the training squad in Pakistan have also made the trip as part of the team.

History of Football in Pakistan

Australian football has been played in Pakistan since 2006, starting with the creation of the Australian Rules Football Federation of Pakistan, based in the city of Mingora, Swat Valley. Mingora is probably one of the most unlikely of places to establish Australian Football with the Swat valley being in the Northern extension of Pakistan at the base of of Himalayan mountains sandwiched between Kashmir and Afghanistan.

 Mumtaz Ali Khan was instrumental in setting up the initial footballl competition through the Tanzeem-E-Insidad-E-Manshyiate organisation (TIM) and being the TIM organisation's first President. TIM is a group combating drug use through seminars, medical centres and sporting tournaments.

May 2006, the city of Mingora, hosted a tournament held by the Tanzeem-e-Insidad-e-Manashyiate organisation between 4 school and college-based teams. Mumtaz Ali Khan said that his organisation, TIM, has been using sport as a tool against drugs in society since 2001-02. The connection to Australian Rules stems from his having once seen the game on television via a sports channel, becoming interested and deciding to begin the game in the Swat area, beginning with school and college level students. The group approached Aussie Rules International for balls and other materials. Four sides representing the Tanzeem-e-Insidad-e-Manashyiate (the Swords), the Swat Public School (the Eagles), the Jehan-Zeb College (the Dolphins) and the Government High School No3 (the Bulls) resulted.

June 2006, the Swat Continental Hotel in Mingora, hosted the 'Seminar for the development of Australian Rules football in Pakistan' run by Mumtaz Ali Khan, and attended by the federation's executive members, school and college-level students and numerous volunteers had an underlying theme of 'helping youths resist drugs'. During the seminar, Mumtaz Ali Khan expressed his thrill that Pakistan had joined the growing list of football-playing nations. They had a four-team High School/College competition, regular fixtures and around 100 players on their lists. In another positive, Naeem Ullah Khan, General Secretary for the Federation, announced that football would be used to preach peace in the area, with plans to spread the game to nearby Afghanistan, Kashmir and Central Asia. It is also hoped the sport would foster Australia-Pakistan relations. Mumtaz Ali Khan thanked the many people who have been involved with the game to date, but stressed that they still faced an uphill battle and that greater assistance was needed in maintaining and growing the sport.

November 2006, Mumtaz Ali Khan opted to vacate the role of President and take on a more active role as Programme Development Officer, in the hope of further encouraging the sport's growth throughout Pakistan. Habib ul Haq, Vice President at the time, took up the role of President. Two more clubs had been established, one in Peshawar (the Colours) and one at the University of Malakand have joined the four team round-robin competition in Mingora, where four clubs attended. Plans were made for mirror competitions elsewhere in Pakistan and in Afghanistan and Kashmir. That made for 6 football teams in Pakistan at the time, all located in the North-West Frontier Province. Five of those are based around educational institutions.

In 2007, the ARFFP changed their name to AFL Pakistan. It was hoped that this new name and image would make them a more attractive organisation to potential sponsors.

August 2014 The Pakistani national played their first international game against India at the International Cup. The match was won comprehensively by Pakistan's Shaheens, a Melbourne based squad. read a HindustanTimes account here.  It is tradition for national sides to have a nickname and the name Dragoons was chosen by AFL Pakistan's former president, Mr. Mumtaz Ali Khan.

The name recognizes the Pakistani Army, which maintains armoured regiments with the titles of Lancers or Horse dating back to the nineteenth century. It represents both the strength of the football side, the courage of the players and their place in a sport with a very detailed and rich history, also dating back to the nineteenth century.

November 2014, Tayyab Chattha and others effectively rebooted AFL Pakistan with help of the Australian High Commission Islamabad staff.
A number or tournaments were held in 2015 culminating in the first National Championships.

The 1st National Australian Football Championship of Pakistan where held on 27th~28th October 2016 played at the  Jinnah Stadium ,Pakistan Sports Complex Islamabad. Ten teams from all over Pakistan participated. The final match was played between the Islamabad Tigers and the Rawalpindi Lions. In attendance was the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan as chief guest and well as the Ambassador of Tajikistan, the Ambassador of Portugal and diplomats from Russia, Brazil, Oman and other dignitaries.

Kashif Bouns presented the cup on behalf of the AFL and he also did commentary on the match. The final match was live telecast on Pakistan National Sports TV around the world.

The Islamabad Tigers starred on their first outing showing fabulous clean ball skills, gut running and determination to overcome the Rawalpindi Lions in a close final by 34 to 30 points.

There were 15 club football in Pakistan at the time, all located in different cities, 4 clubs in Islamabad, 4 clubs in Rawalpindi 2 clubs in Gujranwala, and also including 4 girls club. Prominent clubs are: Islamabad Tigers, Islamabad Rising Stars, Junoon AFC, Rawal AFC, Morghah Queen AFC, Gujranwala AFC, Haiderabad AFC, Faisalabad AFC and Lahore AFC.

Pakistan the country

Pakistan, in the eyes of Westerners. is one of the lesser known countries. Few people appreciate the rich history of Pakistan which has been ruled by numerous empires and dynasties, including the Persian Achaemenid Empire, Alexander of Macedonia, the Indian Mauryan Empire, the Arab Umayyad Caliphate, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mongol Empire, the Mughal Empire, the Durrani Empire, the Sikh Empire, and most recently, the British Empire.

Most people are unaware of the bloody split from India in 1947 that resulted in millions of deaths in the creation of East and West Pakistan. West Pakistan became Pakistan in 1971 with the Independence of East Pakistan to become the country of Bangladesh.

Geographically Pakistan consists of the Indus River Basin that collects water from the Himalayan Mountains and transports it to the rich Indus Delta before entering the Arabian Sea. The name "Indus" gives rise to the name "India" and the Punjab is a large part of Pakistan as well as a part of India.

The Team

Pakistan both men's and women's player profiles can be seen here. http://aflpakistan.com/index.php/category/players/

Prospects:

As stated earlier, this team is largely the Australia based Shaheens from 2014, so we would expect them to be of a similar standard.  With the addition of a few Pakistan based players this should not change the strength of the team too much. They will be very competitive in second division against Germany and Japan and would back themselves against India after their previous IC clash where they won easily. 

Schedule: 

PAKISTAN Rounds 1-3
Sun 6/8 vs Germany (Western Oval) 11:15am/6:15am(PKT)
Wed 9/8 vs Japan (Mt Clear,Ballarat) 10:45am/5:45am(PKT)
Fri 11/8 vs India (Golden Square) 7pm/2pm(PKT)

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The Fiji Vonu have the potential to go to the final dance in this years Womens division. The Vonu have been training and preparing for IC17 since the completion of IC14. After a disappointing IC14, the Vonu are out to prove that Fiji here to compete and win the division.

A vast number of players are returning to their second International Cup and therefore will have the experience to lead the team to the final. Ilisapeci Vateitei takes the Captaincy this year after a strong showing of leadership and development over the last three years. Ilisapeci is also the sister of Fiji Tribe superstar Jiuta Vateitei.

The Team

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While the Papua New Guinea mens team - the Mosquitos - are the reigning champions the story is somewhat different for their female compatriots - the Flames - who are making a return to the International Cup after participating in the first ever women's division in 2011. In that competition the Flames were out gunned by the Irish, Canadian and US sides. The sole victory over the Australian Indigenous and Multicultural side. 6 years on and the Flames will be looking to make their presence more well known on the field.

The Country and Australian Football

While Rugby League is the ‘National Sport’ of Papua New Guinea, Australian Football has also has a long heritage and Australian Football was arguably the number one code post WWII and up to the 1970s. As Ron Barassi having visited PNG twice in the previous 18 months where Mr Dick Kidby (with assistance from the North Melbourne Football Club) had been appointed full-time national GM of PNG football; Barassi opined in the press in April 1978 that even after the visit to Ireland 10 years earlier that PNG was the place with the best chance of developing Australian Football. He noted the nation was evenly divided between soccer, rugby and Australian Football. In his words “We would be crazy if we didn’t make every effort to develop a formidable football force in that country”.

Papua New Guinea has been playing international football for a long time. From fielding an U/17 team in the Australian Teal Cup in 1979 to competing and winning at the Arufura Games during the 1990s. This was despite a stagnation in Australian support during the 1980s which in fairness was a challenging financial period for the VFL and its clubs with a national league seen as a priority – that and revenue from selling licences!

AFL PNG falls under the development eye of AFL Development Manager South Pacific, Mr Ben Drew. There are 2 Boards who run AFL PNG. Key stakeholders include the AFL and the PNG Government. In the past 12 months funding has been accessed via the Australian Governments Pacific Sports Partnership (PSP) to put towards improving governance in each (South Pacific Country – in particular, PNG, Fiji and Nauru) country; train & educate community leaders and staff; Hire more Development staff;provide more equipment & also provide more expert training & Education. “With great connection & support from AFLQLD, utilising their staff to provide training in program delivery we have seen a huge increase in knowledge and professionalism of all South Pacific staff & Volunteers at all levels across each country.”

With respect to AFL PNG specifically and a focus on the 3 years since their 2014 IC success which in itself was building upon a strong growth in the game across the regions of PNG along with improved pathways including the AFL PNG Academy program. Ben Drew worked closely with key PNG stakeholders to oversee the governance focussed evolution via a strong Board directing attention to Senior Community Football across PNG along with the national opportunities via the Mozzies and the Womens Flames. A separate Board is focussed on the development and underage programs; including hiring 20 Full time PNG staff to deliver programs across 8 regions. The two Boards have helped produce a huge increase in participation from the introductory Niukick program to the Senior Community Footy across the nation.

Queensland is a vital cog in the Talent Pathway with both boys and girls sides competing at various times in QLD state or regional championships. Under 14 and Under 16 PNG girls teams have regularly travelled to QLD to compete in state carnivals including the 2016 AFL Queensland Youth Girls State Championships. The PNG Flames includes a number of players with QLD experience in Brigid and Alison Gaur (Aspley), Eliana Kaputin (Zillmere) and Miriam Agita (Townsville).

Strengths and Weaknesses The comparison to the USA Freedom is a fairly clear illustration of the key physical weakness. On average the US side is 9 cm taller (172 to 163) and 10 kg heavier (69 to 59). However - the Flames have youth, and perhaps pace on their side - an average age of around 21 compared to the more senior Freedom at 31.

Players to Watch Taiva Lavai made the 2011 World Team and returns on the verge of her 24th birthday a more mature player. She will be keen to set the example.Look out also for the inspirational coach Johnathan Ila.

PNG Flames - IC Schedule

The Flames will be well tested - drawn against the debutant Crusaders and then matched against the Freedom before taking on the Irish powerhouse.

PNG Flames - IC17 Squad

The Flames will be lead on field by Prudence Sindriwen from the Bomana Cats. Coach Jonathan Ila and team manager is Josephine Ila.

...

A bright early start saw the nations start arriving outside the gates of Government House from around 8.30am. Some were more punctual than others. In a myriad of team colours, the buzz grew as the time to head in through the gates. Some started to sing, South Africa as usual sounding the sweetest, but others gave it a shot.

The new nations were there too looking like nervous schoolkids. Germany, European Crusaders and Sri Lanka all stepping out on the footy world stage in Melbourne for the first time.  The GB Swans and Pakistani women new too, but had their experienced men's teams on hand to give confidence. 

The new nations were there too looking like nervous schoolkids. Germany, European Crusaders and Sri Lanka all stepping out on the footy world stage in Melbourne for the first time.  The GB Swans and Pakistani women new too, but had their experienced men's teams on hand to give confidence. 

Great Britain Bulldogs had an early morning training session that saw some of their players dashing in as the teams marched through the gates. And where was Croatia?  Well they would get there, eventually.

With placards proudly held high each nation paraded as a group through the gates, up the driveway, up the steps and into the historic Ballroom at Government House.  The room contained all the teams (probably close to 1000 people all up) and mingling, selfies, old acquaitances renewed and new greetings were exchanged.

Outside the captains were photographed.  First the 18 men, then the 8 women and then all together.  Following this the Honourable Linda Dessau AC, Governor of Victoria,Linda Dessau and her husband Tony Howard and Victorian Minister for Sport John Eren also sat with the captains for photos.

Back inside the 2017 AFL International Cup was launched by the  was launched by the Governor and she showed her experience and personal knowledge of the International Cup and all it entails, including the French 'paquito'. 

Canada Northern Lights captain Aimee Legault spoke elegantly and finished with a 'merci' responding on behalf of the players.

Time for group shot and then tea, sandwiches and canapés before heading off to the MCG.

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Live scores updated 1/4 by 1/4 across Round 1, Sunday 6th August, 2017 International Cup at Royal Park, Melbourne, Australia

Refresh page for updates.

Also note the AFL are live streaming most matches here.

Note: Women's match Canada v Fiji - Canada won in extra time Golden Point 16 to 15.

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 The AFL are live streaming most matches.  Click here for their main page.  Below is the feed for the big men's Division One match between two of the favourites, PNG and Ireland. Best to open directly in Youtube for the best view.

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