The PNG Chiefs have moved to strengthen their roster ahead of their planned NRL debut in 2028, signing prolific try-scorer Alex Johnston on a one-year deal as player number 002.
Johnston’s arrival marks another step in the club’s preparations under coach Willie Peters, as it looks to assemble a competitive squad with strong connections to Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific.
The winger brings significant attacking pedigree, having built a reputation as one of the game’s most consistent finishers.
His signing is also seen as an important cultural addition, given his ties to Papua New Guinea and his standing among rugby league fans in the region.
PNG Chiefs general manager Michael Chammas described the recruitment as a landmark moment for the club.
“AJ is the greatest try scorer in the history of our game and a Papua New Guinean icon,” he said.
Alex Johnston proudly wears a Papua New Guinean flag over his shoulders during the NRL’s cultural round.(Facebook: South Sydney Rabbitohs)
“A player who has represented his country with pride on the international stage and carried the hopes of the PNG people throughout a remarkable career. And now he is coming home.
“He is the first Papua New Guinean player to sign with the PNG Chiefs. The first of many.”
Chief executive Lorna McPherson said the signing reflected the club’s commitment to building a team capable of competing from its first season.
“This is exactly what we promised — to build a team that the people of PNG can be proud of and one that can compete with the best from day one,” she said.
“Alex is a record holder, we’ve seen what he can achieve, and everyone knows that he is a proven performer, but just as importantly, he’s a great person who represents the values of our club.
“Alex has been a tremendous ambassador for the game and the perfect ambassador for PNG, so bringing Alex home to the Chiefs feels right.”
The Chiefs have emphasised a focus on community, family and national pride as key pillars, with Johnston’s professionalism and reputation off the field seen as aligning with those values.
Alex Johnston with his children after a South Sydneys Rabbitohs game.(Facebook: South Sydney Rabbitohs)
McPherson said the club was continuing to build momentum as its inaugural season approaches.
“We now have players 001 and 002 locked in, and we’re only getting started. There’s real belief and excitement building around what we’re creating.”
Johnston is expected to play a leading role in shaping the team’s identity as the Chiefs prepare for their entry into the NRL.
The club also acknowledged the South Sydney Rabbitohs for their cooperation during the process, allowing Johnston to explore the opportunity while still under contract.