PNG Chiefs coup: Kiwi ace Joseph Manu joins inaugural roster

The PNG Chiefs have scored another massive coup, adding Kiwi Joey Manu to their already impressive inaugural playing roster.

The two-time NRL Premiership winner has signed a two-year deal, ending his stint in rugby union where he has been playing for Racing 92.

Manu joins fellow marquee names Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Zac Lomax and Brian To’o as players signed to the club for the 2028 season.

Born in New Zealand with Māori and Cook Island descent, Manu made his first-grade debut in 2016 after an impressive junior rugby league career which included appearances in the U/19 Commonwealth Games in 2014 and Junior Kiwis in 2015.

Having won both the U18’s and U20’s competition with the Roosters, he won his first NRL Premiership with the Tricolours in 2018 - helping the club repeat their efforts the following year as they won the title again in 2019.

In addition to his 69 tries scored in 181 NRL games, Manu has also made 17 test match appearances for New Zealand and was named the Golden Boot winner in 2022.

PNG Chiefs chief executive Lorna McPherson said the star outside back was another significant signing for the club both on and off the field.

“Joey is another key signing for us and a further demonstration of the ambition we have for this club in making an impact for the people of Papua New Guinea. His connection to the Pacific, his character, experience and standing in the game will have a profound impact on our club.”

McPherson said Manu understands the responsibility that comes with representing something bigger than himself.

“We believe he can have a genuine impact on our young players and the next generation of Papua New Guineans – who we are proud to represent as a club.”

– RNZ

This story was first published on rnz.co.nz