Andrew Johns Predicts PNG’s 2028 Spine and Potential Raids
Andrew Johns, one of the eighth Immortals in rugby league history, has shared his insights on who could form the spine of Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the 2028 season. His predictions include a mix of familiar faces and potential new arrivals, with some intriguing possibilities for players currently in the NRL.
Johns believes that a raid on the Penrith Panthers is imminent, particularly targeting Brian To’o, a cult hero for the club. He suggests that To’o could be set for a “serious payday” if he moves to PNG. The discussions around PNG’s recruitment have intensified after Jarome Luai became the first player signed by the club.
The signing of Luai is expected to create a ripple effect, as his former teammates, including To’o and Spencer Leniu, will be free agents come November. To’o has been heavily linked with PNG since Luai’s announcement, and Johns thinks he’ll “finish with a nice nest egg.”
“I think he’ll sign up there. Him and Jarome are great mates,” he said on Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour.
“Brian’s done everything in the game. I reckon he’d be on unders at Penrith, without a shadow of a doubt. If he goes to market tomorrow he’d be earning 800-900k. If he goes to the Chiefs, it could be a serious payday for Bizza.”
Potential Targets for the Spine
When it comes to building the spine, Johns mentions Jamie Humphreys as a possible target. However, he still believes that Luai will be the halfback.
“If they get Jamie Humphreys they’ll share the load, but it’ll be similar to the way (the Tigers are) playing with (Adam) Doueihi,” he said.
“I have no doubt he (Luai) will play in the No.7 jersey, but it’s how Willie Peters decides to use him and the players around him.”
Johns also hinted that a cross-code star could be playing from the back. He mentioned that PNG is chasing a big fullback, with social media suggesting that Joey Manu is a target.
“I hear they’re chasing a big fullback. It’s been all over social media they’ve been chasing Joey Manu. He could be earning a big, big whack,” he said.
Manu is currently playing rugby union in France for Racing 92, having switched codes in 2024 when he moved to Japan. His future remains uncertain, as he recently told AFP that he would love to play in the Rugby World Cup with the All Blacks next year. This would require him to return to New Zealand.
Despite the lucrative opportunities in rugby union, the tax-free incentives offered by PNG could entice Manu back to the NRL. Manu’s father, Nooroa, recently told Code Sports that PNG is “an option” and that the fullback is at a “crossroads” in his career.
Other Possible Additions
While Manu, Humphreys, and Luai could form the spine, Johns also suggested that Liam Martin could feature on the edge. Mitch Kenny has also been linked with PNG, indicating a significant raid on the Penrith Panthers.
The potential movement of these players highlights the growing interest in PNG as a destination for top-tier talent. With the right signings, the team could be well-positioned to make a strong impact in the 2028 season.
