[REVISION HISTORY]

PNG Chiefs roster buildup and brand development

Updated 11 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-03 08:42 UTC → 2026-09-11 02:34 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The PNG Chiefs continue to build their roster for the 2028 NRL expansion, which requires the league to produce at least 60 new standard players over the next two seasons to support both the Chiefs and the Perth Bears. Recruitment remains a central focus. Following marquee signings such as Joey Manu, Zac Lomax, Brian To’o, Alex Johnston, and Connor Watson, the club is now linked to Canberra Raiders star Hudson Young. Young, who is recovering from an Achilles rupture, has described the prospect of joining the franchise as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” While the Raiders have offered Young a three-year extension worth approximately $1.1 million per season, he has been permitted to tour Papua New Guinea to assess the environment before becoming a free agent on November 1. Commercial and brand development is also accelerating. Jarome Luai has secured significant third-party deals, including a role as a Pepsi ambassador in Papua New Guinea. Additionally, the franchise is preparing to unveil its official logo and inaugural playing jersey in Port Moresby. The logo launch is scheduled for October 21, with the jersey reveal on October 22. CEO Lorna McPherson described the upcoming unveiling as a “watershed moment” and a “remarkable occasion of celebration.” ~~The club noted that the playing kit was crafted by local talent, with an emphasis on ensuring merchandise is accessible to all Papua New Guineans.~~ Regulatory and legal hurdles ~~persist.~~ have intensified. The club previously avoided sanctions regarding anti-tampering rules after director Marcus Bai made public comments about Nathan Cleary, receiving only a warning. ~~The franchise also faces an ongoing trademark dispute with~~ Furthermore, New Zealand Rugby has threatened legal action against the NRL over a trademark dispute regarding the ~~name~~ ‘Chiefs’ ~~due~~ name. Citing its established 30-year identity, New Zealand Rugby has requested that NRL officials reconsider the branding before the scheduled October unveiling, stating it is prepared to ~~potential conflicts with~~ defend its trademark in court if the ~~Hamilton-based Super Rugby side.~~ dispute is not resolved.

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