St Helens captain and England prop Matty Lees has activated an NRL break clause, committing to the new PNG Chiefs for 2028. The Chiefs will join the Australian competition as the 18th team 18 months from now, following Perth Bears’ entry in 2027 ahead of the 2028 season launch soon.

Matty Lees, who joined St Helens in 2017, helped steer the club to four straight Super League Grand Finals from 2019 to 2022 and the World Club Challenge win over Penrith Panthers. He captained the Saints from 2026, yet a knee injury in the Challenge Cup semi may sideline him season.

PNG Chiefs will be coached by Hull KR boss Willie Peters, who guided the Robins to a treble in 2025 and a World Club Challenge victory over Brisbane Broncos. The move marks a significant step for Papua New Guinea, positioning the nation as a NRL competitor in a growing league.

St Helens CEO Eamonn McManus praised Lees’ loyalty, noting he fulfilled his contractual obligations before pursuing the NRL dream. Lees declared the club his family and expressed gratitude, while acknowledging a season remains. The decision leaves Saints with a leadership gap and signals a shift in the Super League’s balance.