PNG Chiefs Target London Broncos Stars for 2028 NRL Expansion
The PNG Chiefs are actively seeking to bring in a number of London Broncos players as they prepare for their entry into the NRL in 2028. The team’s head of football, Michael Chammas, has made it clear that any potential signings should be playing for an NRL feeder club or in the Super League to better prepare them for the demands of the top-tier competition.
Port Moresby has emphasized that the ideal path for these players would involve either joining the Queensland Cup with the Hunters or competing in the Super League. This approach is seen as crucial for ensuring that players are adequately prepared for the rigors of the NRL.
Chammas recently visited England and met with the London Broncos to discuss the future of their partnership. During the meeting, he expressed his views on the importance of players being in the right environment before making the jump to the NRL.
A Strong PNG Connection
The London Broncos have a significant PNG presence, with Jason Demetrio serving as both the head coach of the Broncos and the Kumuls. This connection could prove beneficial for the Chiefs as they look to build their roster.
“We’ve been quite honest with the London Broncos boys because we don’t believe the Championship is an ideal launching pad into an NRL career,” Chammas said. “So if they’re going to be in the NRL system, we’d like them playing Super League next year or coming back home to play in the Queensland Cup for the Hunters.”
He added, “We’ve been quite clear on that: we don’t think Championship is the right preparation for them to go into an NRL pre-season so let’s see how the next few months pan out. With the London Broncos, we’d love to see them in the Super League, we’d have no qualms about them staying here for another year.”
Potential Targets
The PNG Chiefs are keeping a close eye on several London Broncos players, including Morea Morea, Gairo Voro, Robert Mathias, Alex Max, Finley Glare, Epel Kapinias, and Jeremiah Simbiken. These players are currently under contract with the Broncos for 2027, but Chammas is keen on those looking for an opportunity with the Chiefs to gain experience in the Super League or through the PNG Hunters system.
This strategy aims to give players the best chance to compete in a preseason with the NRL’s 19th expansion club.
No Plans for Big-Name Stars
Chammas also addressed recent speculation about targeting high-profile players contracted in the Super League. He dismissed any talk of pursuing big-name stars such as Edwin Ipape, who has signed a six-year deal with Leigh. “Everyone keeps asking us about Edwin Ipape – the reality is Edwin Ipape signed a six-year deal to stay at Leigh,” Chammas said.
“Lachlan Lam’s contracted for another year at Leigh as well. Just like the NRL, we know the rules we’re playing by and if things pop up we’ll deal with them. But at the moment there are some rules around certain players that limit what we can do.”
Key Signings Already Secured
Despite these challenges, the PNG Chiefs have already secured two major signings. Jarome Luai, a four-time premiership-winning half, and Alex Johnston, the NRL’s greatest all-time try scorer, have committed to the club.
Additionally, star utility Connor Watson is set to join the Chiefs in 2028 after reports from Code Sports indicated that he has agreed to terms with the Melanesian-based club.
Looking Ahead
As the PNG Chiefs continue to build their roster, the focus remains on securing players who can thrive in the Super League or through the PNG Hunters system. This approach not only aligns with the team’s long-term goals but also ensures that players are well-prepared for the challenges of the NRL.
With the support of key figures like Jason Demetrio and the backing of established stars, the Chiefs are well-positioned to make a strong impact when they enter the NRL in 2028.
