Willie Peters has reportedly added former New South Wales star Trent Hodkinson to his coaching staff at the PNG Chiefs ahead of the club’s inaugural NRL season.
The former half-back made 174 NRL appearances during spells with the Manly Sea Eagles, Canterbury Bulldogs, Newcastle Knights and Cronulla Sharks across his decorated career.
He also represented New South Wales six times in State of Origin, helping the Blues end their eight-year series drought in 2014.
Since retiring in 2019, the 38-year-old has transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach with the NSW under-19s and the Central Queensland Capras.
Reports have now emerged that Hodkinson has signed a three-year deal with the PNG Chiefs ahead of their 2028 NRL campaign, having visited the expansion club’s facilities in Port Moresby.
Further reports suggest Hodkinson will relocate to Papua New Guinea in December as the Chiefs continue to build towards their debut season. The club has already secured the signatures of Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Brian To’o, Zac Lomax, Joey Manu, Matty Lees and Connor Watson as it prepares for its entry into the NRL as its 19th club.
Following the conclusion of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, Papua New Guinea star and departing Hull KR back-rower Rhyse Martin is set to join the club as football operations manager.
Meanwhile, Hudson Young and Sean O’Sullivan are set to visit the club’s base this off-season, with incoming St Helens signing O’Sullivan expected to make the move for 2028.
Canberra Raiders back-rower Young is set to decide on his future, with the Australian capital club having also tabled a four-year extension worth $4.4 million.