PNG Chiefs Secure Blockbuster Signings of Alex Johnston and Jarome Luai for 2028 Debut

All-time leading try-scorer Alex Johnston and Wests Tigers star Jarome Luai are set to join the PNG Chiefs, the NRL's 19th franchise, backed by $730M in Australian funding.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 29, 2026, 6:45 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Alex Johnston: The "Chief No. 1"

Alex Johnston, 31, officially etched his name into folklore in mid-March 2026 by scoring his 213th career try, surpassing Ken Irvine's 56-year-old record. Currently playing for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Johnston confirmed to teammates on Tuesday that he will relocate to PNG in 2028.

Heritage Connection: Although Sydney-born, Johnston has strong ties to PNG through his grandmother and has already represented the Kumuls in 12 Test matches.

Economic Incentive: By taking advantage of the "tax-free" status negotiated for the franchise, Johnston's move to the Chiefs could effectively double his take-home pay compared to a standard Australian NRL contract.

Jarome Luai: The Marquee Masterstroke

In a parallel move that has stunned the Wests Tigers, co-captain Jarome Luai has also reportedly committed to the Chiefs. Luai was spotted in Port Moresby over the weekend, arriving via private jet to meet with PNG Prime Minister James Marape.