Hull KR boss Willie Peters has reportedly fielded an ‘informal approach’ from those involved behind the scenes at Papua New Guinea Chiefs.
Peters has long been linked with a move to the NRL and reports emerged earlier this week that the Rovers man featured on a four-name shortlist for the Chiefs job. Leeds Rhinos’ Brad Arthur, London Broncos and PNG national team boss Jason Demetriou and Leigh Leopards’ Adrian Lam were also named as candidates by the Daily Telegraph, with a decision potentially coming within the next two weeks.
However, the same publication is claiming that Peters has been sounded out by influential Chiefs figures about potentially taking over at the club ahead of their first NRL season in 2028.
It is also claimed that Peters could be of interest to both Manly Sea Eagles and North Queensland Cowboys, who could be set to change up their coaching line-ups soon following poor starts to the season. Cowboys boss Todd Payten has come under huge pressure following losses to Wests Tigers and Newcastle Knights in the opening two rounds of the season.
Anthony Seibold is feeling the heat at the Brookvale Oval, too, following losses to Canberra Raiders and Newcastle, and a change could well be on the cards sooner rather than later. Peters is sure to be considered by both clubs should changes be made.
Speaking earlier this week on NRL interest and his desire to return down under at some stage in his career, Peters told the press: “I’ve said before that I’ve got a desire to coach in the NRL. Nothing has changed there.
“But my sole focus is on what I’m doing now. I’m coaching Hull KR and my focus is on the players and staff here and making sure we’re ready to go this weekend.
“I’ve openly said I’ve got a desire to go back at some stage. I’ve no idea when that would be.
“All I’m focused on is doing the best job I can do at this club. I’ll continue to do that.”
There is the added complication that Peters is now considered to be one of the favourites for the England job, too, ahead of this autumn’s World Cup.
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