November 1 marks a significant date for the NRL as the PNG Chiefs prepare to join the competition, and it has sparked interest among players.
Steve Gillis, a prominent player manager with over three decades of experience, shared insights on this imminent development during a recent episode of the Fanatics TV podcast.
He noted players are increasingly inquiring about the Chiefs, particularly regarding tax-free earnings offered by the new team.
"They certainly ask the question, would PNG be interested in me?" Gillis remarked, highlighting the curiosity surrounding the franchise's potential picks.
Currently, Gillis and Clinton Schifcofske represent Alex Johnston and Zac Lomax, both of whom are already contracted with the Chiefs for their inaugural season in 2028.
Gillis emphasized that while formal negotiations are prohibited until November 1, PNG has diligently prepared.
"You can't negotiate before November 1, but be assured New Guinea know every player that's off contract at the end of 2027," he explained.
He indicated that the Chiefs are methodically tracking potential recruits with strategic insight.
"They'd have depth charts and whiteboards and computer data and they know exactly what they're doing," he added, affirming their preparedness for the incoming recruitment phase.