Imagine a nation where rugby league isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. That’s Papua New Guinea, and the excitement surrounding the NRL’s expansion into this passionate country is nothing short of electric. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Australian media has raised concerns about safety and recruitment, locals are brushing off those doubts, fully embracing the incoming PNG Chiefs as their next big sporting hope. Sydney Roosters utility Connor Watson recently shed light on this phenomenon after completing the grueling 96-kilometer Kokoda Trail trek in PNG alongside 15 other players and staff. The trip, designed to strengthen team unity ahead of the 2026 NRL season, turned into a firsthand lesson in just how deeply rugby league runs through PNG’s veins.
During his appearance on SEN 1170 Breakfast, Watson shared how the sport dominated every conversation along the trail. And this is the part most people miss: the PNG Chiefs weren’t just a topic of discussion—they were daily headline news. “Every day, the back page was about who’s coaching PNG or which player they’re signing,” Watson recalled. Even the porters guiding the group through the rugged terrain were die-hard rugby league fans, their enthusiasm infectious. For Watson, who had never visited PNG before, witnessing a country where rugby league reigns supreme was eye-opening. “To see their reaction to the sport, it’s just awesome,” he said. “It’s clear that playing for them would mean carrying the weight of their passion—and you wouldn’t want to let them down.”
While the logistical challenges of operating in a different country are undeniable, Watson believes the PNG Chiefs have something far more powerful on their side: the unwavering support of a nation. He also highlighted how the Kokoda experience has already paid dividends for the Roosters, fostering deeper connections among players through extended one-on-one conversations. But here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Can the PNG Chiefs live up to the sky-high expectations of their fans, or will the challenges of NRL competition prove too steep? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—do you think the PNG Chiefs will thrive, or is the hype setting them up for a fall?
