A Unique Opportunity for PNG Players
Jason Demetriou is making waves in the world of professional rugby league by actively encouraging some of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) most talented players on the London Broncos to consider joining the NRL’s 19th team, the PNG Chiefs. This initiative is rare in professional sports, where such support for players moving between leagues is not common.
Demetriou, a former Rabbitoh and current coach of the London Broncos, also serves as the head coach of the PNG Kumuls. His enthusiasm for seeing his PNG stars join the NRL side in 2028 is evident. He believes that this move could be transformative for both the players and their communities.
A Strong Performance by Key Players
In a recent match, five-eighth Gairo Varo and fullback Morea Morea delivered an electrifying performance that left fans and coaches alike in awe. Despite several PNG teammates being sidelined due to injuries, the duo stepped up to the challenge, showcasing their skills in a 64-0 victory over the Midlands.
Varo scored four tries, while Morea added a hat-trick, contributing to seven of London’s tries in the game. This win marked the Broncos’ 11th consecutive victory, setting a new club record. Demetriou was particularly impressed with Varo’s performance, stating that it was one of the best he had seen from him this year.
The Role of the PNG Chiefs
As the PNG Chiefs General Manager of Football, Michael Chammas, prepares to visit London in the coming weeks, Demetriou is eager to introduce him to the standout players. He believes that Voro and Morea are prime candidates for the Chiefs, given their performances.
The journey of PNG players to London has never been about simply making it into the Super League. Instead, it’s about providing these athletes with the opportunity to showcase their talents before a pivotal moment in rugby league history—the formation of the PNG Chiefs.
Demetriou emphasized the importance of this opportunity, noting that it would allow players to prove themselves before the inaugural season of the PNG NRL side. He also highlighted the benefits of keeping the players under contract with the London Broncos for another year, should they choose to join the Chiefs.
Supporting the Players and Their Communities
For Demetriou, the significance of playing in the inaugural season for the PNG Chiefs extends beyond just the players. He understands the impact it would have on their families and the communities that raised them.
“The opportunity to play in the inaugural season for your home country’s NRL side is something that can’t be described,” he said. “It would be a huge honour—not just for the players but for their families and their entire village.”
Demetriou, as both the London and Kumuls coach, is committed to supporting his players in any way possible. He sees this as a chance to help them achieve their dreams and contribute to the growth of rugby league in PNG.
A Broader Movement of PNG Talent
The London Broncos’ contingent includes Morea, Voro, Jeremiah Simbiken, Finley Glare, Epel Kapinias, and centres Alex Max and Robert Mathias. These players are part of a larger movement of PNG talent making their mark in England.
Many other PNG stars are also playing in the UK, including veteran captain Rhyse Martin at Hull KR, hooker Edwin Ipape, playmaker Lachlan Lam, and forwards Liam Horne and Jacob Alick-Wiencke at the Leigh Leopards. Nene Macdonald is also playing for St Helens.
With the Rugby League World Cup set to begin on October 15, the PNG Kumuls will play their first match against Lebanon on October 17. The PNG Chiefs will be closely watching the performances of these players, as they look to build their squad for the upcoming season.
The Future of PNG Rugby League
Demetriou believes that the current group of PNG players in the UK has the potential to fit into the NRL’s 34 or 36-player squads. He noted that many of these players are eager to take on the challenge and compete at the highest level.
As the PNG Chiefs prepare for their inaugural season, the focus will be on ensuring that the right players are selected to represent the country. Demetriou is confident that the talent currently in the UK will make a significant contribution to the success of the PNG Chiefs.
