In signing Jarome Luai, Papua New Guinea's power has become real
Jarome Luai's signing as the marquee player for the Papua New Guinea Chiefs marks a turning point for the new NRL franchise, transforming its long-promised vision into tangible reality. Despite the team not entering the league until 2028 and facing significant logistical and cultural challenges, Luai's commitment—reportedly on the richest contract in rugby league history—demonstrates the financial power behind the project. His move validates the Chiefs' ability to attract top talent, setting a precedent that could draw other high-profile players. The signing signals that PNG's ambitious entry into the NRL is no longer just theoretical, but a competitive force in the making.
- ▪Jarome Luai has signed a three-year deal with the PNG Chiefs, becoming their marquee player ahead of their 2028 NRL entry.
- ▪The contract is believed to be the highest per-season value in rugby league history, estimated at $2.2 million annually.
- ▪Luai will leave the Wests Tigers at the end of the 2027 season, despite having strong ties to the club and its coach.
- ▪The Chiefs' ability to secure a player of Luai's caliber highlights the significant financial backing behind the new franchise.
- ▪Other players, including Alex Johnston, Pat Carrigan, Mitch Kenny, and Liam Martin, have expressed interest in joining the Chiefs.
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Thu, 23 Apr3314→Fri, 24 Apr4634→Fri, 24 Apr3212→Sat, 25 Apr1662→Sat, 25 Apr2018→Sat, 25 Apr648→Sun, 26 Apr1244→Sun, 26 Apr3318→Fri, 1 May18:00--→Fri, 1 May20:00--→Sat, 2 May15:00--→Sat, 2 May17:30--→Sat, 2 May19:35--→Sun, 3 May14:00--→Sun, 3 May16:05--→Sun, 3 May18:15--→ NRL Score Centre analysisJarome Luai's move to Papua New Guinea makes the power of the Chiefs very realBy Nick CamptonTopic:NRL1h ago1 hours agoTue 28 Apr 2026 at 11:46pmJarome Luai has signed as the PNG Chiefs marquee player.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).