Title in five years: Johns’ bold call for PNG

The PNG Chiefs are yet to play an NRL game and only have two players signed.

Yet, Matty Johns believes that within five years of their existence, they’ll do what Parramatta haven’t done in nearly 40 years: Win an NRL Premiership.

Having been granted a team license in 2024, the decision was met with plenty of excitement within the country despite concerns surrounding player recruitment.

However, following the signings of Jarome Luai and Alex Johnston, and the tax-free salaries the Chiefs can offer, concerns have arisen amongst rival clubs over the sizable advantage PNG can utilise for recruitment.

This leads Johns to believe that the NRL’s 19th side can create one of the best rosters that the competition has seen.

“If it (the salary cap) goes up to $15 million, they will assemble, in my opinion, the best roster that $15 million could ever produce because they're dealing with $30 million,” Johns said on SEN’s Morning Glory with Matty Johns.

“First of all, when that was announced, there wasn't really a kickback from the clubs, but the Jarome Luai one has kicked it off. Clubs are blowing up, and I totally understand it.”

And with that potential, Johns believes the Chiefs can emulate the 1999 Melbourne Storm side with near-instant success.

“I reckon they'll win a comp in their first five years,” he added.

“I think they'll win in their first five years.  I think they will assemble a Melbourne Storm-type roster like they did in 1998.  

“Some really good young players come through, and then they shocked everyone by winning in '99.

“How big would that be? How big would that be for that country?”

The PNG Chiefs will formally enter the competition in 2028.