Rugby league expansion team the PNG Chiefs have drawn criticism from Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould over their handling of Jarome Luai’s upcoming signing for the 2028 season, raising questions about how the PNG Chiefs conduct recruitment. According to Wide World Of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus, Gould questioned the club’s business methods after Luai was unveiled as the face of Pepsi PNG and photographed alongside Prime Minister James Marape in Port Moresby.
Phil Gould Questions PNG Chiefs Recruitment Tactics
Luai agreed to join the PNG Chiefs for their inaugural 2028 campaign after securing an early release from the Wests Tigers and arranging a stop-gap stint with the Parramatta Eels for next year.
“If you sign a player from another club mid-season, out of respect you don’t talk about it until he actually arrives at the club,” Gould said, as reported by Wide World Of Sports. “That’s the way we’ve always done, that’s the way I’ve always tried to do it and most clubs feel that way. PNG are in the competition and this is the way they’re conducting their business and this is what we’re gonna have to deal with.”
Jarome Luai Faces Fan Backlash After PNG Trip
The 29-year-old playmaker faced heightened scrutiny last week after travelling to Papua New Guinea. Luai signed a lucrative third-party agreement to become the new face of Pepsi in the country and appeared at a Port Moresby golf event. The promotional appearances occurred just a day after Luai limped off the field for the Wests Tigers during their round 26 match against the North Queensland Cowboys.
The sequence left a sour taste for many Tigers supporters, particularly given Luai previously declared he would stay at Concord “for life” during last year’s contract saga involving Lachlan Galvin. Rugby league commentator Corey Parker also criticised the situation on Tuesday, stating on air that the unfolding events “stinks.” Gould noted that while the media portrays certain aspects of the move, there are some disappointing moments for the current club.
Parramatta Eels Roster Uncertainty and Ronald Volkman Extension
Alongside the recruitment controversy, uncertainty surrounds Luai’s eventual playing role at Parramatta once he completes his interim stop-gap period. Nine’s Danny Weidler reported on Wednesday that current Eels five-eighth Ronald Volkman agreed to a two-year contract extension following strong on-field form alongside captain Mitchell Moses.
Did You Know? Ronald Volkman earned his two-year extension following standout performances under Eels coach Jason Ryles, raising questions over who will wear the No. 6 jersey when incoming signings arrive.
“The positive environment which Jason Ryles has created at the club has provided some stability for Ronald where he is playing his best football of his career,” Eels general manager Mark O’Neill said in an official statement. O’Neill added that Volkman earned the opportunity through consistent individual and team efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Jarome Luai join the PNG Chiefs?
Jarome Luai is scheduled to join the PNG Chiefs for their inaugural 2028 season after completing his time with the Wests Tigers and an interim stop-gap stint with the Parramatta Eels.
Who criticized the PNG Chiefs’ handling of the signing?
According to Wide World Of Sports, Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould criticized the expansion franchise’s business approach during an episode of Six Tackles With Gus.
What contract extension did the Parramatta Eels secure?
According to Nine’s Danny Weidler, Eels five-eighth Ronald Volkman agreed to a two-year contract extension following strong form alongside Mitchell Moses.
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