PNG Chiefs project attracts overseas media as Matty Johns arrives

PNG's push towards becoming an NRL powerhouse continues to capture international attention, with Australian rugby league identity Matty Johns arriving in Port Moresby yesterday to cover the progress of the PNG Chiefs.

Accompanied by a Fox League television crew, Johns' visit highlights the growing interest surrounding the franchise, which has become one of the most talked-about rugby league projects in Australia, Papua New Guinea and England.

 PNG Chiefs project attracts overseas media as Matty Johns arrives

The visit comes amid increasing media coverage of the Chiefs, with much of the attention focused on the club's recruitment plans, infrastructure developments and the impact it is expected to have on rugby league throughout the Pacific.

General Manager of Football Michael Chammas said welcoming Johns to Papua New Guinea was a proud moment for the club and the country.

He said the opportunity for Fox League to witness Papua New Guinea's rugby league culture firsthand would give viewers a better understanding of why the nation's NRL journey has generated so much excitement.

Chammas added that a successful PNG Chiefs franchise would strengthen the game across the region, while Johns and the Fox League crew are scheduled to return to Australia tomorrow following their short visit.

"Matty Johns is a legend of the game and for him to be in Papua New Guinea is huge for this country," Chammas said.

"You can see how much he means to the people of PNG.

"We are extremely thankful to Fox Sports for sending him over here.

"Matty and Fox Sports understand that a strong PNG Chiefs only strengthens the game we all love. They've already seen just how much this country loves rugby league."