PNG Kumuls Hero Rhyse Martin Returns Home for Chiefs Role

PNG rugby league star Rhyse Martin will return home to help build the future of the PNG Chiefs after being appointed the club’s Football Operations Manager ahead of its planned entry into the NRL.

The former PNG Kumuls captain is set to relocate to Port Moresby with his wife Vanessa and their two children before the club’s full operational launch in October 2027.

 PNG Kumuls Hero Rhyse Martin Returns Home for Chiefs Role / Photo supplied

Martin, who is proudly connected to Hula in Central Province through his father, has built a strong reputation both on and off the field during a career spanning the NRL and the English Super League.

The 31-year-old made his debut for the Kumuls in 2014 and later captained the national side. He remains PNG’s all-time leading point scorer and has played 18 Tests for the country.

After debuting for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in 2018, Martin went on to play more than 160 games in the Super League with Leeds Rhinos and Hull KR. During his time at Leeds, he also set a world record with 41 consecutive goals.

PNG Chiefs General Manager Football Michael Chammas said Martin’s experience and leadership qualities made him the right person for the role.

“Rhyse has had an incredible career as a player but he still has so much to offer the sport,” Mr Chammas said.

“He has the trust of our coach Willie Peters from their time together at Hull KR and they will continue to work closely as Rhyse steps into a new role at the Chiefs.”

“Anyone who has ever met Rhyse will talk about the quality of person he is and how passionate he is about Papua New Guinea.”

As Football Operations Manager, Martin will oversee football operations, player welfare and support programs for players and families moving to Papua New Guinea ahead of the club’s inaugural NRL season.

PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said Martin’s appointment was part of building the right foundations for the club’s future.

“Rhyse represents everything we want this club to stand for — professionalism, humility, leadership and deep pride in Papua New Guinea,” Ms McPherson said.

“We are incredibly proud to welcome him and his family home as part of this journey towards 2028.”