PNG sign Jarome Luai as Chief no.1 on a multi-year deal

The Papua New Chiefs have officially announced the signing of four-time premiership winner Jarome Luai as their first-ever player.

The Wests Tigers playmaker has signed a multi-year deal to become the face of the expansion franchise, designated as "Player 001". Luai is contracted for the 2028 and 2029 seasons, with an option to extend his stay in Papua New Guinea through 2030.

The signing of the NSW State of Origin representative and Samoan international is a seismic shift for the Chiefs ahead of their 2028 NRL entry. Club officials believe Luai’s presence will act as a magnet for other elite talent.

"Securing his signature is a big step forward for our club and for Rugby League in Papua New Guinea," said General Manager of Football, Michael Chammas. "We said we would attract the best players in the competition and we’ve done that".

The signing follows a recent visit by Luai to PNG, where they toured facilities and met with club hierarchy to experience the local culture firsthand.

Beyond his on-field brilliance, the Chiefs are banking on Luai’s cultural status to unite the region. The club has positioned itself not just as a national team, but as a team of the Pacific, with Luai as its primary ambassador.

Chiefs Chair Catherine Harris said the playmaker’s personal values align perfectly with the franchise's mission.

"Just like us, Jarome puts family and culture first," Harris said. "Having his commitment signifies everything the Chiefs stands for".

While the announcement settles Luai's long-term future, he still has 18 months remaining on his current deal at the Wests Tigers. Chammas extended his well-wishes to the Tigers, stating he would love nothing more than for Luai to finish his current tenure with another premiership ring before heading north.

With their inaugural player now locked in alongside a head coach and recruitment staff, the Chiefs say they are ready to build a roster capable of competing from day one.

"Today is a very proud moment in our short history," said CEO Lorna McPherson. "We now have player 001 and we’re ready to build out the strongest list in the competition".