World Cup overnight: Kumuls into the quarters; JWH faces ban

Papua New Guinea have secured a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals after beating Wales 36-0 in Doncaster on Tuesday. 

In driving rain, PNG ran in six tries, with doubles to Nixon Putt and young-gun Jimmy Ngutlik, keeping a brave Wales outfit scoreless in the final match of the group stage.

Also overnight, Sydney Roosters prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves is set to miss New Zealand's quarterfinal clash with Fiji after being charged over a high tackle in last weekend's match against Ireland. Lebanon forward Jaxson Rahme has been cleared to play against Australia in the quarterfinal at Huddersfield after receiving a caution for dangerous contact in the Cedars win against Jamaica.

The main takeaways

• PNG have finished the round games as Group D runners-up to Tonga and will play England in their quarter-final on Saturday.
• Kumuls flyer Jimmy Ngutlik was a sight to behold in full cry, producing arguably the try and tackle of the match.
• Wales failed to break their streak of losses, having not recorded a win in the World Cup since reaching the semi-finals in 2000.

Star performers

PNG winger Jimmy Ngutlik scored a double for the Kumuls, including a superb 60-metre try to announce himself on the world stage. The 21-year-old flyer was an excitement machine in just his second match in the black, red and gold and could be a huge threat against England on Saturday. 27-year-old forward Nixon Putt was also a standout in the winning side, barnstorming his way over the line twice throughout the match. 

What the result means

The win sets Papua New Guinea up for a quarterfinal clash against England on Saturday while Wales will head home, having failed to pick up a win at the tournament.

Recap

• Match report: Papua New Guinea book quarter-final spot with big win
• Key injuries: Chester Butler (HIA)