League commentator Phil Gould says Papua New Guinea (PNG) needs AFL-style concessions in order to compete more evenly, following comments by rugby league coach Wayne Bennett that such arrangements are “unfair.” Gould’s explanation, reported by multiple outlets, focuses on the competitive gap and the rationale for providing additional support to a developing team or pathway. The discussion is framed around how concession systems are intended to balance differences in resources, experience and player depth rather than to guarantee equal outcomes.
While Bennett’s remarks question the fairness of concessions, Gould argues the approach is designed to promote competitiveness and sustainability. The reporting does not indicate that the specific structure of the concessions has been altered, but it highlights that the debate is ongoing and public. Across the coverage, the key theme is that Gould backs the use of concessions for PNG and views them as a practical tool to help level the playing field.
