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'Got to be an issue': Why Bennett isn't the man for PNG
Charles Goodsir • December 11th, 2025 1:17 pm
The PNG Chiefs would be making a mistake if they were to hire Wayne Bennett as their inaugural coach for the 2028 season, according to Michael Carayannis.
The Chiefs will be the 19th franchise to enter the NRL following the introduction of the Perth Bears in 2027. With Bears coach Mal Meninga struggling to attract big name talent out West, many fear the Chiefs will face a similar predicament.
Bennett was integral to the Dolphins’ immediate success and competitiveness when they entered the competition in 2023 but Carayannis is doubtful over whether the seven-time Premiership winner will have the same impact with PNG.
“Bennett will coach 1000 games which is scary to think about,” Carayannis said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“He’s still chasing to become the first coach to win a Premiership at three different clubs. He was so close in 2021 if it weren’t for that Cody Walker intercept for South Sydney.
“I think he will finish his career at South Sydney. I think there’s an extension coming for him.
“If I’m PNG, I’m not signing Wayne Bennett.
“Without being disrespectful, he’ll be almost 80 and I’m being serious when I say this but flying every week when you’re 80, that’s got to be an issue.
“It would take a toll.
“I still don’t think he’s the person for PNG. I think that job requires a different energy level.
“I think he should just retire at Souths.”
Bennett won six premierships with the Brisbane Broncos and another in 2010 with the St George Illawarra Dragons. Since then, Bennett has lost two Grand Finals with the Broncos in 2015 and more recently South Sydney in 2021.
Bennett is contracted to South Sydney until the end of the 2028 season.
