World Footy News

Rounding out the field at this year's Harmony Cup will be a combined side playing under the name "Team Harmony". The team includes players from Israel, Lebanon, Somalia, Ethiopia, South Africa, UK, USA, PNG and Samoa, including PNG's former AFL star Mal Michael.

Tournament director Brian Clarke explains that Team Harmony was thrown together at the last minute, following the withdrawal of Team Africa. "A trial was held at Gosch's Paddock in Melbourne on Sunday 14 March, and 22 people turned up desperate to make the squad."

"At the same time, India was training at the opposite end of the ground and were being filmed by Channel 7. Both teams were very keen for a hit out before the Harmony Cup and so it was quickly agreed to arrange a scratch match on the day."

"The match was played in great spirit with some great skills and fierce tackling on display."

Team Harmony will be coached by Freddie Lewis (USA) and captained by Luke Matias (UK). Joining them in the squad along with PNG's Mal Michael will be Fia Tootoo from Samoa.

Playing in black jumpers, white shorts and black socks, Team Harmony will open the tournament against Indonesia, and also play Italy and Albania later in the day.

Coordinated by Aussie Rules International, the Harmony Cup kicks off at 9am this Sunday morning at Whitten Oval, Footscray - home of the Western Bulldogs. Entry is $10, draw and further details available at harmonycup.com.