The PNG Chiefs have secured a major addition to their inaugural NRL squad, signing England international and St Helens premiership-winning forward Matty Lees as Player 004 ahead of the club's entry into the competition in 2028.
Lees becomes the fourth player officially announced by the franchise and joins an emerging roster designed to establish the foundation of Papua New Guinea's first NRL club.
Widely regarded as one of the toughest front-row forwards in rugby league, the 27-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the Chiefs after making more than 170 professional appearances and representing both St Helens and England at the highest level.
The signing is another significant step in the club's recruitment campaign as it continues building a squad capable of competing with the NRL's elite while laying the groundwork for long-term success.
PNG Chiefs General Manager of Football Michael Chammas said the acquisition of Lees reflects the club's focus on securing players who embody the standards and culture it wants to establish.
"Matty Lees is one of the toughest and most respected forwards in rugby league," Chammas said.
"He's built his career through hard work, consistency and an uncompromising approach to the game.
"Those qualities are exactly what we're looking for as we build our roster and culture for 2028.
"We're delighted to secure Matty as Player 004 and look forward to seeing the impact he'll have both on and off the field."
A multiple Super League premiership winner, Lees has earned a reputation not only for his performances on the field but also for his professionalism, resilience and leadership qualities.
PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson said the club's recruitment strategy extends beyond football ability, with character and leadership considered key components in building a successful organisation.
"As we continue building the PNG Chiefs, we're focused on bringing in quality people as much as quality players," McPherson said.
"Matty has earned enormous respect throughout his career through his professionalism, humility and commitment to his team.
"As Player 004, he becomes part of the foundation group that will help establish the standards and identity of our club for years to come."
The Chiefs also acknowledged St Helens for its cooperation throughout the signing process and said Lees will join the club following the completion of his commitments in England.
The announcement follows the unveiling of Players 001, 002 and 003 and marks another milestone in the club's preparations for its historic NRL debut in 2028.
With each new signing, the vision for the PNG Chiefs continues to take shape, as the club seeks to build a roster founded on talent, leadership, professionalism and character while inspiring future generations of Papua New Guinean rugby league players and supporters.
