Jason Demetriou lands surprise new role – as one-time Rabbitohs coach replaces Justin Holbrook

Papua New Guinea rugby league bosses believe hiring Jason Demetriou as coach of the national team is a ‘really positive’ step on the path to inclusion in the NRL.

Demetriou will take charge of the Kumuls for the Pacific Championships in October, his first coaching job since being axed as South Sydney’s head coach in April.

The appointment comes as an Australian government-backed bid from Papua New Guinea firms as the likeliest candidate for the NRL’s 19th licence, set to be granted in 2028.

‘Everything we are doing is in preparation for becoming an NRL team and we believe Jason’s appointment is another really positive step towards that goal,’ said PNG NRL bid chief executive, Andrew Hill.

‘Having someone of Jason’s standing in the game take on the Kumuls head coaching role is another great step towards becoming part of the NRL.’

Demetriou could remain in charge for the 2026 World Cup, by which time the prospective franchise’s preparations for entry into the NRL would be in full swing.

‘We are interested in building a long-term relationship with Jason leading up to the 2026 RLWC and have been in talks with Jason and are looking forward to finalising this soon,’ said PNGRFL chief executive Stanley Hondina.