Meninga joins PNG Kumuls coaching staff

Mal Meninga: Credit: Getty Images

Mal Meninga has joined Papua New Guinea's coaching staff, combining his new role with his Queensland State of Origin job.

Rugby league legend Mal Meninga is joining Papua New Guinea's coaching staff in a major boost to their preparations for this year's World Cup.

Meninga on Tuesday signed a five-year deal to become performance director for the Kumuls, who have been drawn alongside Samoa, France and defending champions New Zealand in group B of the 14-team tournament to be held in the United Kingdom and France towards the end of the year.

The 52-year-old former Kangaroo will work alongside PNG coach Adrian Lam, combining his new role with that of coach of Queensland's State of Origin side.

Meninga has a long association with Papua New Guinea and has coached the Australian Prime Minister's XIII in its annual clash with the Kumuls since 2006