Former Wakefield Trinity man Jason Demetriou is considered to be one of the early favourites to take control of Papua New Guinea’s NRL franchise. Papua New Guinea will have a team competing in the NRL from 2028, with their place in the competition being confirmed earlier this week.
The club, which doesn’t have a name just yet, has already been linked with a raft of personalities in the game down under with the likes of Nathan Cleary and Bradman Best being mentioned as potential targets. Coaching candidates have also been named and as the current Papua New Guinea national team boss, Demetriou may well be among them.
According to Wide World of Sports, Demetriou, who was dismissed by South Sydney Rabbitohs last season, looks set to extend his contract with the Kumuls, which could strengthen his claim. And, the head coach is said to have demonstrated his commitment by compiling a report into improving junior development in the nation.
As such, it seems Demetriou is keen on the opportunity and according to his agent he would be the ideal man for the job.
“Jason is the perfect candidate for head coach and no one knows more about the game in PNG,” Chris Orr told Wide World of Sports. “He already has an intimate knowledge of the players in the national team and a good relationship with them.
“He has also done a report on what needs to be done in the Cyril Connell and Mal Meninga Cup teams to ensure the young players are properly prepared when the time comes.
“He is committed to the game in PNG and prepared to move up there. He knows there is a lot of work to be done but he is super invested in making the team successful.”
Demetriou has been in charge of the Kumuls since being appointed in August, ahead of the Pacific Championships.
