The first leg of the Cook Islands Rugby League Rarotonga 13s competition playoffs kicks off this afternoon at Nukupure Park in Muri, following the culmination of the preliminary rounds.

The undefeated Tupapa Panthers have claimed the Minor Premiership after finishing on top of the points table following two rounds of five matches.

The Darren Piri-coached side is now eyeing a rare double, with the main Rarotonga League 13s title at stake as they face the Arorangi Bears in the first leg of the playoffs tomorrow afternoon.

In the first playoff battle, defending champions and former Minor Premiership holders Avatiu Nikao Eels will take on Titikaveka Bulldogs this afternoon at 4.45pm.

The other two teams – Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles and Takuvaine Warriors – are out of contention after finishing in fifth and sixth, respectively.

Cook Islands Rugby League’s Chris Browne told CITV Sport: “The playoffs will be heading out to Muri in Nukupure Park and the hosts will actually be the Takuvaine Warriors. The TKV Warriors will be given the gate takings and etc to help the club earn some income so that they can build up to next season.”

“I would like to take this time to once again congratulate everyone, everyone from team management, organisers, supporters of the teams, partners, caregivers and etc for making our season of 2025 a successful year so far as we go through the playoff rounds.”

Fixtures

Friday – 4.45pm Titikaveka Bulldogs-Avatiu Nikao Eels. Saturday – 12.20pm U14 Eels-Bears/Sea Eagles, 1.20pm U16s Eels-Bears, 2.30pm U19s Eels-Sea Eagles, 4pm Panthers-Bears