NRL Welcomes PNG Chiefs to Join Competition in 2028
The National Rugby League (NRL) has officially welcomed Papua New Guinea’s new franchise, the PNG Chiefs, confirming the team’s inclusion in the 2028 NRL season.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo made the announcement during his visit to Port Moresby last weekend, where he attended the Prime Minister’s XIII games and witnessed the unveiling of the PNG Chiefs. Abdo said the inclusion of the PNG-based team marks a new era for rugby league in the Pacific region.
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| PNG PM XIII team in action [Photo by PNGRLF] |
“We are delighted that we now have Papua New Guinea confirmed as the PNG Chiefs playing in the NRL in 2028,” Abdo said. He commended both the PNG and Australian governments for their continued efforts to strengthen the game’s presence across the Pacific.
The NRL chief was also impressed by the talent displayed during the PM’s XIII fixtures, particularly among the younger players. “The Junior Kumuls and Orchids, and the Australian Schoolboys and Schoolgirls were incredibly competitive,” he said. “That’s exciting because we know the PNG Chiefs will be competitive when they take the field in 2028.”
Abdo said the journey towards 2028 was progressing steadily, with the next step being the unveiling of the team’s logo and colours by the PNG Chiefs board, led by Chairman Ray Dib.
He also acknowledged Papua New Guinea’s successful hosting of the Pacific Bowl Championships, which continues to attract teams and supporters from across the Pacific region.
“Every time I come to PNG, I feel the enthusiasm and energy. Sport is about community, and PNG embodies that spirit,” Abdo said.
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