LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The NRL has kicked off its game plan with an ambitious expansion strategy, aiming to add two new teams to the mix in the near future.
The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman, Peter V'landys, is leading the charge with a goal of hitting 20 teams within the next decade.
The first tackle in this expansion play is reportedly targeting the Perth Bears and making history by introducing the first team from Papua New Guinea to the NRL lineup.
V'landys has been in talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, looking to score a $600 million 'soft diplomacy' package to get Papua New Guinea prepped and ready for NRL action.
The anticipation is high for a PNG team to join the competition by 2028, making a splash in the league.
In a bold move, V'landys has his eye on seasoned coach Wayne Bennett to lead the charge for the new PNG franchise.
Bennett, currently coaching the Dolphins, is expected to sign a three-year deal with the Rabbitohs, making him a free agent for the 2028 season to coach the NRL's newest addition.
"We're keen to have Wayne Bennett onboard for the 18th team," V'landys commented.
"He's a mastermind of the game, and if he's available for the next expansion, we definitely want him.
Wayne is aligned with the vision for expansion, and he's keen to be a part of that vision."