Revealed: The PNG talent pool in sights of Chiefs
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THE excitement around the PNG Chiefs making their NRL debut in 2028 is growing across Papua New Guinea, and so is the following.
With two years to go, discussions about recruitment and squad building are now in full swing.
Chiefs management have made it clear that while signing experienced players is important to strengthen the squad for their first season, they will not overlook the wealth of PNG talent already competing overseas.
Many Papua New Guinea internationals are currently contracted to clubs in the NRL, Super League, Betfred Championship and Queensland's Hostplus Cup, offering the Chiefs a ready-made pool of players familiar with top level rugby league.
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PNG Internationals in the NRL (2026 season)
These players have the potential to provide leadership and skill on the field for the Chiefs when the team makes its historic NRL entry.
- Jack de Belin – Parramatta Eels
- Cooper Bai – Gold Coast Titans
- Alex Johnston – South Sydney Rabbitohs
- Robert Derby – North Queensland Cowboys
- Zac Laybutt – North Queensland Cowboys
- Xavier Coates – Melbourne Storm
PNG Internationals in the Super League (2026 season)
The Super League also has a strong contingent of Papua New Guinea internationals who can play a key role in supporting the Chiefs’ plans.
- Jacob Alick-Wiencke – Leigh Leopards
- Rhyse Martin – Hull Kingston Rovers
- Edwin Ipape – Leigh Leopards
- Lachlan Lam – Leigh Leopards
- Liam Horne – Leigh Leopards
- Nene Macdonald – St. Helens
- Dan Russell – Bradford Bulls
Edwin Ipape Try
PNG internationals in the Betfred Championship
London Broncos, coached by Jason Demetriou, are also home to several PNG internationals, while there are others playing in one of England’s toughest leagues.
- Gairo Voro – London Broncos
- Robert Mathias – London Broncos
- Alex Max - London Broncos
- Finley Glare – London Broncos
- Epel Kapinias – London Broncos
- Morea Morea – London Broncos
- Emmanuel Waine – Oldham RLF
PNG internationals in the Queensland Hostplus Cup
Apart from top-tier competitions, Papua New Guinea internationals are also making their mark in the Queensland Hostplus Cup, a strong feeder system for NRL talent.
- Nixon Putt – Central Queensland Capras
- Judah Rimbu – Brisbane Tigers
- Dudley Dutoi - Townsville Blackhawks
- Zev John – Central Queensland Capras
- Valentine Richard – Central Queensland Capras
- Sylvester Namo – Brisbane Tigers
These players represent the future stars of PNG rugby league. Their inclusion in the Chiefs’ plans will ensure a balance of youth, skill, and local representation.
