LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Following the announcement of the new PNG Chiefs, plans for the club's inaugural key signing are reportedly already in motion.
As stated by The Daily Telegraph, the NRL's most successful coach, Wayne Bennett, has become central to the ambitions of establishing a Papua New Guinea franchise. ARL Commission chairman Peter V'landys confirmed that they are keen to involve the Hall of Famer in the project.
Bennett, whose current contract with South Sydney expires at the end of 2027, will be 78 years old by the time PNG is anticipated to enter the NRL in 2028.
V'landys expressed enthusiasm about enlisting the seven-time premiership-winning coach to support the $600 million Pacific expansion initiative.
"Yes, we want Wayne Bennett involved," V'landys stated.
"If Wayne is available, he'll be the first bloke I call.
"You can ask Wayne if he wants to coach, but we will use him in whatever capacity would be suitable to him."