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.