St.Helens R.F.C. is thrilled to announce the signing of Papua New Guinea international Nene Macdonald on a two-year contract!
The 6ft 4in centre brings a wealth of experience from both the NRL and Super League, as well as on the international stage with PNG.
A highly athletic player, Macdonald has established himself as a devastating and entertaining outside back, using his size and pace to break defensive lines, create opportunities, and score tries himself.
During his time in the NRL, he played close to 100 matches across spells with the Sydney Roosters, where he made his debut, Gold Coast Titans, St George Illawarra Dragons, North Queensland Cowboys, and the Cronulla Sharks.
Following a Queensland Cup Grand Final victory in 2021, a move to the UK came in 2022. Macdonald played a major role in Leigh’s promotion to the Super League that season, scoring 27 tries in 27 appearances. He then joined Leeds Rhinos for a year before moving to Salford, where he has spent the last two seasons.
Macdonald is reunited with Head Coach Paul Rowley, under whom he was named in the 2024 Super League Dream Team at centre during his time with the Red Devils.
Now a Saint, Macdonald will wear shirt number 25 for the Red V in the 2026 season.
Nene Macdonald expressed his delight and told saintsrlfc.com: “I can’t wait. When I first came over to England, Saints were winning everything and known for being such a huge club, so to be able to come and join a big club with such history is really exciting.
“It feels like a fresh start with the new coach and new players, big players too, and I’m looking forward to helping get Saints back on top.”
Macdonald is also relishing the opportunity to work with Paul Rowley again.
“He’s a great coach and manages me really well to get the best out of me. I’ll give my best for Saints and for him.”
Speaking directly to our supporters, Macdonald added: “I try to bring that little bit of x-factor, something out of nothing, and I’m really excited to go and prove myself in the Saints jersey.
“I know how massive and important the Club is to the town, so I’ll be going hard to give my absolute best for the fans.”
Head Coach Paul Rowley welcomed Macdonald to the Club, saying: “Nene is a player who I’m confident will bring excitement and added quality to the BrewDog Stadium in 2026.
“To be able to bring a player of Nene’s calibre to the Club at such a late stage is a real boost to our squad and testament to the ambition and support of Mike Rush and the Board.
“It’s important for me to thank the Club publicly for their support of myself and the team, as it’s very much appreciated.”
