SP PNG Hunters CEO Scott Barker says discussions with the incoming PNG Chiefs NRL franchise are progressing well as the club positions itself as a key development pathway for future professional players.
Barker revealed the Hunters have been engaged in discussions with officials connected to the PNG NRL project for more than a year, with regular meetings already taking place between club and franchise representatives.
"We started some work about 12 months ago around what that affiliation might look like," Barker said.
"We've had a number of meetings and there is open dialogue between our coaching staff and their coaching staff. They're certainly taking an interest in what we're doing."
Barker said the relationship is expected to strengthen as the PNG Chiefs NRL franchise continues to build towards its anticipated entry into the competition in 2028.
The Hunters have long been regarded as the pinnacle of Papua New Guinea's rugby league pathway, but Barker believes the arrival of the NRL franchise creates even greater opportunities for local players.
"For a long period of time, the Hunters were at the top of the pathway. Now the franchise becomes the top of the pathway, and our role is to prepare players for that next level."
Barker said the club is already working closely with franchise officials to identify and develop talent capable of earning positions in the future NRL squad.
The Hunters CEO also addressed the progress of former Hunters players currently based in England with the London Broncos system.
While acknowledging the standard of competition may not be as strong as some players had hoped, Barker believes the overseas experience remains invaluable.
"I wanted to see them go and experience what it's like to live and play in London. The Hunters' development is not just about what happens on the field, it's about personal growth off the field as well."
Should those players return to Papua New Guinea before securing long-term opportunities in the United Kingdom, Barker said they would be welcomed back into the Hunters system.
"I'd love to see them come back, strengthen the Hunters and then push for a spot with the PNG franchise in 2028."
Barker also confirmed the club remains open to recruiting experienced players from Australia or elsewhere if suitable opportunities arise and salary cap regulations permit.
"To build a pathway for our young players, you also need experienced players around them. If the right player becomes available and it fits within our rules and salary cap, it's certainly something we would look at."
As the Hunters continue their rebuilding phase, Barker said the long-term objective remains clear: developing players capable of succeeding at the highest levels of the game and creating a sustainable pathway into Papua New Guinea's future NRL team.
