Willie Peters wins race to coach PNG Chiefs

Premiership-winning Hull KR coach Willie Peters is poised to become the inaugural coach of the PNG Chiefs.

Peters is yet to sign a contract, but is the preferred candidate and has told his players of his intention to take on the role. The former Dragons and Rabbitohs halfback has pipped Brad Arthur, Jason Demetriou, and Adrian Lam for the job at the team that will enter the NRL in 2028.

Peters has been considered the next NRL coach-in-waiting after taking Hull KR to the last two Super League grand finals, winning the 2025 decider against Wigan. The 47-year-old further enhanced his credentials with his role as assistant Kangaroos coach and a World Club Challenge win against Michael Maguire’s Brisbane Broncos in February.

The Australian Rugby League Commission decided Peters is their pick for the Chiefs role, and only a breakdown in contract talks would result in him not getting the job.

More to come