The New Zealand High Court has declined New Zealand Rugby's (NZR) application for an interim injunction to prevent the newly formed PNG Chiefs rugby league franchise from using the 'Chiefs' name. The PNG Chiefs, who are preparing to enter the NRL in 2028, welcomed the ruling, while NZR indicated the decision merely delays the matter until a full hearing. The dispute now enters a holding pattern, with a substantive trial expected next year.
organisation
PNG Chiefs
Rugby league club from Papua New Guinea
The NRL will allow players to challenge the market value ascribed to them by head office, a move that could revive the PNG Chiefs' pursuit of NSW and Canberra back-rower Hudson Young after the expansion club withdrew its offer last month.