LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
'That's the goal': V'landys' vision for 18th and 19th NRL teams revealed amid Bears revival
ARLC chairman Peter V'landys is said to be gearing up to expand the NRL with two new franchises in the near future, aiming to reach a total of 20 teams.
Recent reports suggest that Papua New Guinea and the Perth Bears could be the lucky contenders to join the elite first-grade competition.
The success of the Dolphins has sparked optimism among rugby league bigwigs, as discussions are slated to take place next month to explore the possibility of introducing two new teams by 2030.
According to The Daily Telegraph, V'landys has even engaged in talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to secure a hefty $600 million 'soft diplomacy' fund for a Papua New Guinea outfit.
The spotlight is on PNG, expected to debut in the NRL by 2028, possibly under the guidance of seasoned coach Wayne Bennett.
The Rabbitohs mentor is reportedly on the brink of inking a three-year contract, leaving him open for a leading role in the PNG team come 2028.
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