South Sydney Rabbitohs star Alex Johnston, already on track to become the greatest tryscorer in NRL history, may also become part of another historic milestone, potentially becoming the first signing for the upcoming Papua New Guinea NRL team set to enter the competition in 2028.
Johnston, who re-signed with the Rabbitohs on Tuesday for two more seasons, is now within striking distance of Ken Irvine’s long-standing record of 212 tries, needing just five more to equal the legendary mark.
While the 30-year-old has committed to South Sydney until the end of the 2027 NRL season, he has left the door wide open for a move to the PNG-based franchise when it launches.
A proud Koedal Klan Saibai man, Johnston has represented Papua New Guinea at international level since 2019, qualifying through his grandmother Mary, who was born in PNG.
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He has made 10 Test appearances for the Kumuls, playing at fullback and wing, and has his sights set on a second Rugby League World Cup appearance in 2026.
"It would be pretty cool to be player No.1," Johnston told The National during a recent visit to Papua New Guinea.
"With my connection to the country, if there is an offer on the table, of course, I would consider it."
Johnston is not only a superstar on the field but a cultural icon in PNG, regularly travelling there for clinics, community visits, and promotional events as an ambassador for Lae Biscuit Company.
His deep connection with the nation has made him a natural fit for the incoming PNG NRL franchise.
"I would love to run out with the boys at the next World Cup and try to go further than any Kumuls team have gone before," Johnston said.
With 237 NRL appearances for South Sydney, Johnston has been a cornerstone of the club since his debut, including being part of the 2014 premiership-winning squad.
He has also played in four Indigenous All Stars games and earned one Test cap for Australia in 2015.
As Johnston continues to etch his name into the history books, fans in both Australia and Papua New Guinea may soon witness him break records, and build a legacy across two nations.