PNG Chiefs land Origin star Zac Lomax for historic 2028 launch

The PNG Chiefs have pulled off another major recruitment coup, confirming the signing of Origin and Test-class outside back Zac Lomax ahead of the franchise's maiden NRL campaign in 2028.

 PNG Chiefs land Origin star Zac Lomax for historic 2028 launch

The deal was sealed at a signing ceremony in Port Moresby on Sunday afternoon, where Lomax became the club's official signee 005, putting his name to the contract in front of PNG Chiefs chief executive Lorna McPherson and general manager of football Michael Chammas.

Lomax walked away from rugby league in March 2026 to chase a fresh challenge in the 15-man game, agreeing to a two-year contract with the Western Force and Rugby Australia. That switch came after he had already built a strong résumé in the NRL, having worn the Parramatta jersey and represented New South Wales in State of Origin, along with donning the green and gold for Australia.

Bringing him back into the 13-man code gives the expansion outfit a genuine star with big-match pedigree, and club officials will be counting on his experience to help shape the Chiefs' culture and playing identity in the lead-up to kickoff.

He now lines up alongside Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson and Matty Lees on the Chiefs' growing list of marquee recruits, a roster that continues to reinforce just how serious Papua New Guinea's rugby league ambitions have become on the world stage.