Kumuls Legend Marcus Bai Urges PNG Chiefs to Secure Nathan Cleary and Patrick Carrigan for 2028 NRL Debut

Marcus Bai urges PNG Chiefs to sign Nathan Cleary and Patrick Carrigan, citing a massive national impact and cultural ties for the 2028 expansion team.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 5:24 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Love Rugby League

National Icon Sets Ambitious Recruitment Standard

The strategic architecture of the NRL’s newest franchise has taken a bold turn as board member Marcus Bai publicly identified his primary targets for the club's 2028 debut. Following the confirmation that the PNG Chiefs will join the first-grade competition twelve months after the Perth Bears, the focus has shifted toward building a roster capable of immediate impact. According to Ben Olawumi, Bai is advocating for a recruitment strategy centered on championship-winning experience. By targeting the league's most recognizable figures, the Chiefs aim to transcend typical expansion team expectations and establish a culture of excellence from their opening kickoff in Port Moresby.

The Cultural Impact of a Potential Cleary Signing

The pursuit of Nathan Cleary is framed not only by his athletic prowess but also by a deep-rooted cultural connection to the Papua New Guinean people. Cleary’s partner, Manchester City footballer Mary Fowler, shares PNG heritage, leading local fans to affectionately refer to the Penrith half-back as a "brother-in-law" to the nation. Bai suggests that the arrival of such a high-profile figure would effectively bring the country to a standstill, citing the immense public adoration Cleary already commands in the region. According to reports in The Australian, the pitch to Cleary includes a tax-free salary package and residence in a bespoke player resort currently under construction for the incoming squad.

Navigating the Complexities of the Open Market

Despite the ambitious nature of the proposal, the path to securing Cleary remains fraught with logistical and familial hurdles. While the superstar half-back becomes a free agent for the 2028 season on November 1, his father and current coach, Ivan Cleary, has already declined an invitation to lead the Chiefs as their inaugural head coach. There is currently no formal indication that the younger Cleary intends to depart the Panthers, where he has built a historic dynasty. However, the Chiefs' board remains optimistic that the combination of a record-breaking financial offer and a unique national legacy could tempt the New South Wales representative to headline the expansion project.