As of February 17, 2025, there have been no official announcements regarding Adrian Lam’s appointment as the General Manager of a Papua New Guinea (PNG) rugby league team, nor any reports of Scott Barker’s dismissal from his role. Recent rumors circulating about these developments appear to be unfounded.
**Adrian Lam’s Current Engagements**
Adrian Lam, a distinguished figure in rugby league, has a storied career both as a player and a coach. Born on August 25, 1970, in Rabaul, PNG, Lam has represented PNG internationally and played for prominent clubs such as the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL) and the Wigan Warriors in the Super League. Transitioning into coaching, he has held positions including head coach of the PNG national team and assistant coach for Australia during the 2021 World Cup.
In recent years, Lam has been at the helm of the Leigh Leopards, a Super League club. Under his guidance, the team has achieved notable success, with Lam’s leadership being a pivotal factor. In an interview from July 2024, Lam expressed a long-term interest in contributing to a potential PNG-based NRL franchise but reaffirmed his commitment to the Leigh Leopards for the immediate future.
**Scott Barker’s Tenure with the PNG Hunters**
Scott Barker has served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the SP PNG Hunters, a prominent rugby league team competing in the Queensland Intrust Super Cup. His tenure began in 2021, during which he successfully navigated challenges such as relocating the team’s operations to Queensland due to COVID-19 restrictions.
In December 2024, the SP PNG Hunters addressed the emergence of false media articles concerning the team. CEO Scott Barker stated, “It’s extremely disappointing,” emphasizing the importance of relying on official channels for accurate information.
**Clarifying the Rumors**
The recent rumors suggesting Adrian Lam’s full-time return to PNG as a team General Manager and Scott Barker’s dismissal lack credible sources and official confirmation. Both individuals continue to excel in their respective roles, with Lam leading the Leigh Leopards and Barker maintaining his position with the SP PNG Hunters.
It’s essential for fans and stakeholders to rely on official communications from the respective organizations for accurate updates. Misinformation can lead to unnecessary confusion and detract from the achievements and ongoing efforts of those involved in advancing rugby league in PNG and beyond.
For the most current and reliable information, individuals are encouraged to consult official team websites and reputable news outlets.
