PNG Chiefs boss shuts down critics over veteran marquee roster

PNG Chiefs General Manager Michael Chammas has defended the club's recruitment strategy, insisting his star-studded marquee roster holds the exact winning DNA needed to build an NRL powerhouse.

Critics have questioned the expansion franchise's focus on signing established stars who will be in their 30s by the time the Chiefs kick off their inaugural NRL campaign in 2028.

However, Chammas insists the seven marquee additions in 29-year-old Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston [31], Connor Watson [30], Matty Lees [28], Zac Lomax [26], Brian To'o [28], and Joseph Manu [30], were chosen specifically for their elite standards and big-match pedigree.

"A lot of people have commented on the fact that these guys are in their late 20s now, and they will be in their 30s when they get here," Chammas said.

"We want to teach young Papua New Guineans coming through the system what it takes to be a professional athlete. The guys that we've recruited will teach that. They understand what winning looks like."

The numbers speak for themselves. The recruits share an astonishing 15 premiership rings, complemented by head coach Willie Peters, who steered his side to a Super League treble last season.

Beyond on-field performance, Chammas spoke of the off-field stability veteran players bring to a brand-new franchise operating in a unique environment.

"They are better able to handle the challenges of moving away from friends and family," Chammas said. "They are going to all live together, and I think guys at their age are more well-equipped to handle that change."

The Chiefs GM said securing big-name leaders first provides the ultimate magnet for recruitment ahead of the November 1 signing deadline.

"It makes it a lot easier to attract younger players when you can say, 'Come play alongside Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, or Joey Manu.' It makes the club a lot more attractive to the targets we have in mind."