Brisbane Broncos have landed a major coup for their 2025 premiership campaign, securing the services of Queensland Origin star Ben Hunt on a two-year deal. The signing marks a homecoming for Hunt, who launched his NRL career with the Broncos in 2009.
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Ben Hunt reveals why Brisbane won out
When asked whether returning to the Broncos was always the plan, Hunt admitted in an interview with 4BC Brisbane, “It definitely wasn’t always, and that’s what made the decision process so long.”
“Having a family down here in Sydney, we had to weigh up whether it was the right move to come back to Queensland or stay down here and finish off before we move back.”
Despite strong interest from Sydney clubs, Hunt’s emotional connection to Brisbane won out. “In my heart it always kept taking me back to Brisbane and the possibility of finishing off my career where it all started,” Hunt revealed.
Premiership vision drives return
Broncos head coach Michael Maguire believes Hunt could be the missing piece in breaking Brisbane’s 19-year title drought. “He would give us great depth,” Madge said. “Ben has played both positions at the highest levels at hooker and halfback, so it would give us versatility around what he can do.”
Hunt, too, is optimistic about his return. “I’m hoping I can contribute and win a competition,” he shared, voicing his championship ambitions. “I believe they’ve got the troops to do it, and Madge will be great for the club.”
Hunt is open to embracing any role that benefits the team but remains clear about his priorities. “My priority is to play in the half—that’s my favourite position,” he stated. “But playing hooker definitely isn’t an issue for me.”
“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”
Looking ahead to 2025
The 334-game veteran will begin training under Maguire next month, bringing experience and leadership to Red Hill. “I met with Madge a couple of times and everything we talked about was footy related—what he thinks the side’s capable of and how I can contribute,” Hunt said. “Our conversations were outstanding and I’m looking forward to playing under him.”
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“For him to come back and achieve something that he set out as a kid at the Broncos, it would be an incredible story,” Maguire added, highlighting the narrative of Hunt’s return.
With Hunt’s leadership and skillset, the Broncos’ spine is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the NRL, giving the team a dynamic edge as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Published 27-November-2024
