PNG Chiefs have signed Samoa captain Jarome Luai for two years with a further season’s option.
In probably the biggest news story in Papua New Guinea rugby league history save the establishment of the NRL franchise, Luai advised his current club Wests Tigers he’d be leaving at the end of 2027.
The recruitment of the NSW five-eighth and Penrith Premiership winner has brought the issue of the Chiefs’ tax exemptions firmly back into focus.
“Jarome is a world-class player and a proven winner,” the club’s general manager of football, Michael Chammas, said.
“Securing his signature is a big step forward for our club and for rugby league in Papua New Guinea. We said we would attract the best players in the competition and we’ve done that. It is a proud moment for us.
“He embodies the style, passion and competitiveness we want our team to represent. We’re thrilled to welcome Jarome and his family to the Chiefs family.
“I also want to wish him and the Wests Tigers all the best in the upcoming 18 months and would love nothing more for him to finish his time at the club with another premiership ring.”
Luai was feted in Port Moresby last week, with PNG prime minister James Marape involved in wooing him.
“It was a great experience,” Luai told reporters at Wests Tigers training.
“My family and my son got the chance to come with, and being there after all of that, it’s probably what got it sealed.
“It was important. That’s why they came with me. They had a good experience, just as I did.”
