New PNG Coach Unveils NRL Recruitment Strategy and Target List
Willie Peters has moved quickly after being appointed head coach of the PNG Chiefs. The club has also added Michael Chammas as general manager of football and Liam Ayoub as head of recruitment.
Early targets and timeline
The Chiefs have discussed three star NRL players as potential recruits. Cameron Munster, Isaah Yeo and Nathan Cleary feature on the club’s early target list.
The club cannot formally approach contracted NRL players until November 1. If those players remain unsigned beyond the end of 2027, the Chiefs plan to make offers.
Why those names have surfaced
Peters worked alongside the trio during the recent Tour of England. He was an assistant coach to Kevin Walters with the Australian Kangaroos.
Rumours about Munster have also been linked to a common manager, Braith Anasta. Media reports on Triple M suggested that connection could prompt the Chiefs to sound out Munster.
Wider recruitment talk
Other players linked to the project include Gairo Voro, Alex Johnston and Cooper Bai. Cooper Bai is the son of PNG rugby league icon Marcus Bai.
Filmogaz.com reported the discussions and interest in building a competitive foundation roster for the new franchise.
NRL recruitment strategy and club philosophy
Peters has described a recruitment approach that prioritises leadership and cultural fit. The NRL recruitment strategy will favour players who add value on and off the field.
He stressed the need for a family environment. Peters said he will avoid signing players motivated solely by tax-free earnings.
Local pathways and development
The Chiefs will invest in pathways across Papua New Guinea. They aim to identify and develop domestic talent for the squad.
Chammas and Ayoub will manage recruitment conversations when the legal window opens. Peters said the club wants many players from PNG in the long term.
Next steps
Formal approaches will follow the November 1 contact date if targets are available. Clubs such as Melbourne and Penrith may also seek contract extensions for their stars.
The Chiefs plan to balance marquee signings with homegrown talent. Their long-term objective is to build culture and unite a nation through the team.
