“I just wish I was born ten years earlier”: NRL journeyman raises hand for PNG Chiefs contract

One of PNG’s favourite sons is looking for a return to the NRL.

By Leo Twemlow · Zero Tackle

Published: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 8:24 PM

Key Things to Know

Nene Macdonald has expressed his desire to join the NRL's incoming PNG Chiefs franchise for 2028.
The 32-year-old outside back is a free agent after mutually parting ways with Super League side St Helens.
Macdonald shifted to the second row under coach Jason Demetriou in Papua New Guinea's 34-12 defeat to England.

The Story in 60 Seconds

PNG Kumuls outside back Nene Macdonald has declared he wants to return to the NRL and join the expansion PNG Chiefs ahead of their 2028 debut. Following a mutual departure from Super League club St Helens, the 32-year-old free agent confirmed his desire to resume his Australian career after six years away.

Macdonald made his second-row debut under Kumuls head coach Jason Demetriou during Papua New Guinea's 34-12 World Cup defeat against England. The journeyman previously scored 35 tries across stints with the Sydney Roosters, Gold Coast Titans, St George Illawarra Dragons, North Queensland Cowboys, and Cronulla Sharks.

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“I just wish I was born ten years earlier”: NRL journeyman raises hand for PNG Chiefs contract

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