Tag: NRL

Brisbane Broncos 2026 Season Preview: The Champions Reload at Red Hill

Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

Defending a premiership isn’t a victory lap. It’s more like taking the first carry of the season straight into three defenders — no space, no sympathy, no excuses.

That’s where the Broncos find themselves in 2026.

At the Clive Berghofer Centre in Red Hill, they’re not the hunters anymore. They’re the standard. The premiers. And every side in the competition has circled them on the draw.

There’s reason for confidence — and reason for caution.

After throwing the kitchen sink at Hull KR in the last 20 minutes last week to go down 30-24 in the World Club Challenge but scoring at a point per minute in those last 20, Madge may feel a bit of deja-vous.

This team has required some revving up in the last year, it does not purr like a well tuned engine, it produces large doses of fumes and spits and then powers down the track and sets a new dragster record.

The big names out are real. Selwyn Cobbo’s strike has gone to the Dolphins. Kobe Hetherington’s work rate now belongs to Manly. Martin Taupau’s experience is no longer there when things get tight. Those aren’t small departures.

The ins matter too. Grant Anderson adds reliability and defensive polish. Tom Duffy gives depth in the halves. Aublix Tawha brings size and aggression through the middle. None are headline-grabbing splashes — but premiership sides aren’t built on headlines. They’re built on balance.

This isn’t a rebuild. But it’s not complacency either.

The Broncos enter 2026 as reigning premiers after that hard-earned grand final win over the Melbourne Storm. That title wasn’t flashy. It was disciplined. It was physical. It was controlled by captain Adam Reynolds when the pressure peaked.

Backing it up will demand even more.

Read: Broncos Reveal Bold New Look as Brisbane Charges Into a New Era

The Spine Still Sets the Standard

As fans, we know this: if the spine fires, Brisbane are dangerous.

Reece Walsh isn’t just electric — he changes defensive structures. Reynolds and Ezra Mam give the side composure and spark in equal measure. When they’re connected, Brisbane can score from anywhere.

Through the middle, Patrick Carrigan remains the defensive heartbeat, while Payne Haas continues to set the benchmark for power and work rate in the engine room. Haas confirmed this week he will join South Sydney ahead of the 2027 season, but for now the focus is firmly on one more campaign in Broncos colours.

If Carrigan and Haas win the ruck, Brisbane win momentum. When they don’t, the edges get exposed. That’s the simple truth.

Head coach Michael Maguire deserves credit for embedding defensive discipline in 2025. But year two is always different. The edge comes from within now, not from proving a point.

Early Tests

Billy Walters’ ACL recovery leaves questions around the hooking rotation early. Brendan Piakura’s Round 3 target return helps, but depth will be tested immediately.

And the 30–24 World Club Challenge loss to Hull KR? That wasn’t catastrophic — but it was instructive. Champions can’t afford to drift out of contests. The defensive standard has to be there from Round 1.

Round 1: No Grace Period

The title defence begins March 6 under lights at Suncorp Stadium against the Penrith Panthers.

That’s not easing into a season. That’s diving straight into it.

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said last year there was no better way to open — and he’s right. This is the stage you want as champions.

“There’s no better way to start 2026 than under lights at Suncorp Stadium, in front of our members and fans,” Donaghy said in a club statement last year.

“No one could forget that energy and atmosphere at home against Penrith in the prelim – it was one of those defining Broncos’ moments. To open the new season against Penrith, at home, that’s the kind of stage we want and will set the tone for 2026,” he added.

Penrith arrive with Nathan Cleary cleared to play. They won’t blink. Neither can Brisbane.

A First Month That Will Tell Us Plenty

Round 1 – Panthers (Suncorp Stadium)
Round 2 – Eels (Suncorp Stadium)
Round 3 – Storm (AAMI Park)
Round 4 – Dolphins (Suncorp Stadium)

Three of the first four at home is an opportunity — but it’s also pressure. If Brisbane start flat, the noise will come quickly.

Projected Round 1 Outlook

Official teams are confirmed during match week, but expect continuity.

Walsh at fullback. Reynolds and Mam steering the attack. Carrigan and Haas setting the tone in the middle. Corey Jensen and Jordan Riki working the edges. Ben Hunt’s versatility stabilising the spine.

The likely bench rotation — Xavier Willison, Ben Talty, Aublix Tawha and Grant Anderson — offers size and adaptability.

It’s a strong 17 on paper.

But paper doesn’t win back-to-back titles.

Read: Planning for Suncorp Stadium Upgrades to Tap AI Technology

Red Hill Sets the Tone

At training, intensity looks sharp. Standards appear uncompromising. But this is the NRL. No one cares what you did last year.

The Broncos have the roster. They have the coach. They have the belief.

Now they have to prove they still have the edge.

And fans will back them — loudly — while demanding they earn it again.

Published 24-February-2026

Broncos Get the W Against the Cowboys but Defense Needs Polishing

“We’ve got a little bit to work on”, says Madge “We had a little bit of sickness go through the team this week.” At half time, he said: “We spoke about the things I know we are capable of.”

Paddy Carrigan said: “We obviously started fast….a little bit disappointed defensively…….what’s going to be required to win finals games in the next few weeks is a bit more than that”.

“Reecey — over the last couple of months, his maturity around the game has changed” said Madge.

Two tries (Gehamat Shibasaki and Kotoni Staggs) in the first ten minutes as well as a Cowboys sin binning (Braidon Burns) had the Broncos off to a flyer, but conceding the next three tries to the Cowboys suggests the concentration lapsed. In the space of 2 minutes however, the Broncos delivered two more tries through Josiah Karapani and Reece Walsh just before half-time, giving the Broncos some momentum back into the half-time break.

Three more tries in the second half through Shibasaki’s second, Billy Walters and Payne Haas was enough despite conceding two more Cowboys tries in the second half.

Karapani’s 196 run metres (including 2 line breaks) with Shibasaki’s three line breaks and a sprinkling of Reece Walsh magic (5 line break assists and two try assists as well as his own 5-pointer) were major contributors to a crucial win, after the Warriors tripped up on Friday night, leaving the door wide open for a Broncos Top 4 finish.

Kotoni Staggs with 69 post contact metres proved a handful, but defensively Billy Walters and Ben Hunt didn’t have their best game, missing 11 tackles between them as well as five ineffective tackles.

Now the big finale against the Storm at Suncorp. Will the Storm be determined to win, or will their playoff preparations take priority, resting key players?

It’s a must-win for the Broncos, the Warriors will be all out to beat the Sea Eagles after their disaster against the Eels, if both the Broncos and the Warriors lose then Madge’s boys will be in the 4, but lose momentum when it counts.

A massive week of preparation before taking on the 2nd placed Storm.

Published 31-August-2025

Broncos Eye Crucial Win Against Cowboys as Finals Hopes Hinge on Round 26 Clash

Published 29-August-2025

A dominant “w” last week in Newcastle, sets the Broncos up for a huge Round 26 clash with the Cowboys tomorrow night at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

The Cowboys can only inflict damage on their Queensland rivals, as they lie 13th.

Adam Reynolds is named in the extended squad despite having re-injured his hamstring on Thursday at training, having not played since Round 23 against the Storm.

Reynolds feels he will be ready for the playoffs, though getting on the field against the Cowboys looks less likely. Madge Maguire would be very unlikely to risk Reynolds in a game the Broncos should win without him.

Brendan Piakura comes back into the interchange and Jock Madden joins the reserves along with Reynolds and Delouise Hoeter.

If the Broncos can win their last two games, including the regular season finale at home to the 2nd placed, Storm, they could still make the top 4. The Warriors currently in 4th would need to slip up tonight at home against the Eels or away to the Sea Eagles next Friday; the Broncos play the Storm next Thursday; and the Warriors play the Sea Eagles next Friday; so it may go down to the wire if the Broncos can win in Townsville.

Across the park, the Cowboys’ starting pack remains sturdy and unchanged—an indication of their coach Todd Payten’s confidence in a settled group.

The refereeing team for Saturday includes Ashley Klein at the whistle, with Drew Oultram and Chris Sutton on the touchlines, and Chris Butler as the senior review official.

Key Match Facts

  • The Broncos bring a five-game winning streak against the Cowboys into this clash.
  • Cowboys second-rower Jeremiah Nanai has been a thorn in Brisbane’s side, scoring six tries in his last six outings against them.
  • The in-form Kotoni Staggs continues to pose a serious threat—he’s crossed for five tries across his last four matches.
  • For North Queensland, this game marks a personal milestone for lock Reuben Cotter, as he prepares to notch up his 100th NRL appearance.

Stats & Matchups to Watch

  • Head-to-head dominance: Brisbane has won each of the last five encounters against North Queensland, including a 26–16 victory in Round 3 this season at Suncorp Stadium. The Broncos have had the edge in recent Queensland derbies, with strong second-half efforts proving decisive.
  • Strike players: Kotoni Staggs (Broncos) is in top attacking form, crossing for five tries in his last four matches. His strength and acceleration on the right edge continue to trouble defensive lines. Jeremiah Nanai (Cowboys) has a proven ability to find the line against Brisbane, having scored six tries in his last six games against the Broncos. His timing off short balls and aerial threat make him a key danger man.
  • Middle-third battle: The engine room will be vital, with Payne Haas averaging 67.5 post-contact metres per game and ranking among the NRL’s leaders in dominant carries. Teammate Patrick Carrigan has amassed over 3,300 running metres this season, making him one of the most consistent metre-eaters in the comp. They’ll face a determined Cowboys pack led by Jason Taumalolo and Reuben Cotter, whose 100th game brings added motivation.
  • Halves and control: With Adam Reynolds still named in the reserves as he recovers from a hamstring injury, the playmaking duties may again fall to Ezra Mam and Billy Walters. Their ability to guide the team around the park, especially under pressure, could be tested in a hostile Townsville environment.
  • Milestone moment: Reuben Cotter will notch up his 100th NRL game in front of a home crowd—a major achievement for the hard-working lock and a potential emotional lift for the Cowboys in their final home game of the season.

Expect a gritty, physical battle where momentum could swing early depending on composure and execution. If Brisbane’s seasoned campaigners impose pressure early, they’ll likely navigate Reynolds’ absence. But if Nanai and the Cowboys can unsettle the Broncos pack, it might get tight before halftime.

Kick-off is at 7:35pm AEST on Saturday, 30 August. The match will be broadcast live on Fox League and Kayo Sports.

Broncos Resume Training At Red Hill Base After Cyclone Alfred

Photo Credit: Hutchinson Builders

The Brisbane Broncos have returned to training at their Red Hill headquarters following Cyclone Alfred, with the facility emerging largely unscathed despite the severe weather that impacted Brisbane over the weekend.

Read: Brisbane Home Invasion: Woman and Elderly Mother Attacked in Red Hill

The club’s training centre didn’t sustain any significant damage from the cyclonic conditions, allowing players to report for Monday morning’s scheduled gymnasium session. The team was also able to conduct their planned field session Monday afternoon.

This quick return to normal operations at Red Hill comes as the Broncos prepare for Saturday night’s clash with the Canberra Raiders. The team’s travel arrangements remain unchanged, with the squad set to fly to Canberra on Friday as originally scheduled.

Photo Credit: GIO Stadium Canberra

The relatively minor impact on the Red Hill facilities stands in contrast to the wider flooding and wind damage experienced across Brisbane and surrounding areas during the cyclone. Several Broncos players, including captain Adam Reynolds and fullback Reece Walsh, experienced power outages at their homes, with Walsh resorting to a generator at his rural property south of the city.

The team had returned to Brisbane in the early hours of Friday morning after their 50-14 victory over the Sydney Roosters, taking a charter flight to Toowoomba followed by a bus to Brisbane as the cyclone approached.

Read: Pre-War Paddington Home Sets $12M Suburb Record After Major Renovation

With their Red Hill base operational, the Broncos can maintain their preparation routine following their impressive performance against the Roosters, where props Pat Carrigan and Payne Haas earned five Dally M points each and Reynolds received two points for his game management alongside halves partner Ben Hunt.

Published 10-March-2025

Michael Maguire Influence Key to Cory Paix Resurgence

In a testament to persistence and determination, Brisbane Broncos’ forgotten man Cory Paix stands on the verge of a remarkable NRL return after being sidelined from the game for 526 days. The hooker, previously told he could leave the club under former coach Kevin Walters, has impressed new mentor Michael Maguire with his work ethic and resilience during pre-season training.

Read: Red Hill Awaits as Kotoni Staggs Nears Broncos Contract Extension

The Rise from the Outer

Despite a minor lower leg niggle keeping him from the trial against the Titans, Paix remains firmly in contention for the season opener against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium on 6 March. For the Toowoomba product, the opportunity to potentially play in front of his home crowd in the upcoming pre-season clash holds special significance.

Rather than accepting offers from two interested Sydney clubs, Paix chose the harder path. “The easy option would have been for me to leave, but being stubborn, I’ve dug my heels in and given it a red-hot crack,” Paix revealed. “It’s easy for people to whinge and kick stones, but it’s not in my nature to do that.”

New Coach, New Opportunities for Cory Paix

Maguire’s arrival has breathed fresh life into Paix’s career. The new coach’s emphasis on work ethic and leadership qualities aligns perfectly with Paix’s approach to the game. “It’s a clean start for everyone. Madge is demanding hard work and that suits my style,” Paix explained.

Drawing from his successful tenure at South Sydney, where he managed a talented hooking rotation including Issac Luke and Api Koroisau, Maguire sees value in maintaining strong competition for the number nine jersey. “If you have a quality group of hookers, it really helps your team,” Maguire stated.

Competition Intensifies

The battle for the dummy-half role has become increasingly intriguing with young gun Blake Mozer’s recent shoulder injury ruling him out of round one. While Billy Walters finished 2024 as the first-choice hooker, the arrival of marquee signing Ben Hunt adds another dimension to the selection puzzle.

Despite a minor lower leg niggle keeping him from the trial against the Titans, Paix remains firmly in contention for the season opener against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium on 6 March. For the Toowoomba product, the opportunity to potentially play in front of his home crowd in the upcoming pre-season clash holds special significance.

Read: Rachel Burke’s Journey of Healing Through Art in Red Hill

As the 2025 season approaches, Paix’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes the greatest victories come not from taking the easy path, but from staying the course through adversity. “No-one is guaranteed a spot here,” Paix acknowledged. “I will keep chipping away.”

Published 14-February-2025

Broncos Join Forces with State Rivals in Historic Talent Pathway Initiative

In a groundbreaking move that signals a new era for rugby league development in Queensland, the Brisbane Broncos will join forces with their state rivals to create an innovative youth competition designed to bridge a crucial gap in player pathways.

Read: Broncos Champion Local Causes with Charity Partnerships and Strapping and Education Night

This historic collaboration between the Brisbane Broncos, The Dolphins, North Queensland Cowboys, and Gold Coast Titans will establish a nine-week development league for emerging talent, paving the way for the highly anticipated return of the National Youth Competition (NYC) in 2026.

For Broncos faithful, this initiative strengthens the club’s future talent pipeline by providing young prospects with high-quality matches against their peers from Queensland’s other rugby league clubs. It addresses a longstanding disadvantage compared to Sydney-based teams, which have benefited from more established youth competitions.

Building Tomorrow’s Broncos

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy, leveraging his experience from the Melbourne Storm during the previous NYC era, has thrown his support behind the concept while emphasising the importance of a measured approach.

“It’s really important as a Queensland-based club that there needs to be parity with our competitors,” Donaghy said, highlighting the strategic significance of the development league for the Broncos’ future success.

The competition structure will see Brisbane’s young guns face each rival team twice in a round-robin format, with discussions underway about potentially staging these matches as curtain-raisers to NRL fixtures at Suncorp Stadium.

Pathway to the Big League

The timing of this Queensland development series is ideal for the Broncos, as it aligns with the NRL’s broader vision for youth development. The competition will commence after the conclusion of the Mal Meninga Cup in May, ensuring a seamless transition for promising players who may not yet be ready for Queensland Cup football.

For Brisbane’s loyal fanbase, this means more opportunities to witness the club’s future stars in action as they take crucial steps towards professional careers. The competition will serve as a vital stepping stone for young players aspiring to follow in the footsteps of current Broncos stars like Payne Haas, Pat Carrigan, and Ben Hunt, all of whom emerged from the original NYC system.

Looking Ahead to 2026

This Queensland development league is just the beginning of a broader transformation in rugby league’s youth pathways. With the NRL investigating the revival of a national under-21s competition in 2026, the Broncos are positioning themselves at the forefront of youth development in Queensland.

The new competition structure directly addresses the historical challenges that have placed Queensland clubs at a disadvantage compared to their New South Wales counterparts, who have long benefited from the established Jersey Flegg Cup. By taking proactive steps now, the Broncos will be well-prepared when the national competition returns.

Read: Musgrave Road in Red Hill to See Clearway Extensions Under New Plans

QRL boss Ben Ikin, who chairs the Pathways Steering Committee, has pledged full support for the initiative, ensuring the competition will have access to quality match officials and venues. This backing from Queensland’s governing body reinforces the credibility of what promises to be a major development in the Broncos’ youth pathway system.

Published 10-February-2025

Broncos Champion Local Causes with Charity Partnerships and Strapping and Education Night

The Brisbane Broncos are once again opening their doors to the community, offering a unique opportunity for sports trainers and strappers to hone their skills. On Tuesday, 18 February at 6:00 pm, the club will host its annual Strapping and Education Night at the iconic Red Hill training facility.

Read: Musgrave Road in Red Hill to See Clearway Extensions Under New Plans

2025 Strapping and Education Night

Proudly supported by Elastoplast and the Broncos’ Hostplus Cup affiliates—the Wynnum Manly Seagulls and Souths Logan Magpies—this free event promises to be an invaluable learning experience for participants of all skill levels.

Strapping is a critical skill in sports medicine, helping to prevent injuries and support athletes during recovery. Led by Matt Barradeen, a key member of the Broncos’ medical staff, the evening will focus on best practices in strapping and sports training. Whether attendees are seasoned professionals or newcomers to the field, the session aims to provide practical knowledge that can be applied across various levels of sport.

Broncos Launch Charity Partners Program with Record-Breaking Ambitions

The Brisbane Broncos are doubling down on their commitment to the community, announcing 12 inspiring new charity partners for 2025, which include organisations such as Ambulance Wish QLD, Cancer Council Queensland, Youngcare, and the Black Dog Institute, among others. These partnerships highlight the Broncos’ focus on addressing critical issues across health, social justice, and community welfare.

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy highlighted the club’s commitment to Queensland communities, noting the legacy of Clive Berghofer, whose $130 million in donations inspires their ongoing efforts. Donaghy stated, “I find it really apt that we get to come into this building, the Clive Berghofer Centre each and every day, and be reminded of Clive’s unwavering support of Queensland community groups that has amassed more than $130M to date.”

The Broncos’ fundraising, including game-day 50-50 raffles, raised a record $900,000 in 2024, and the club aims to exceed $1 million in 2025. Head coach Michael Maguire also shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasising the importance of community engagement. “What we do off the field and away from footy, is just as important, if not more than what we do on the paddock,” Maguire said.

Read: Shocking Road Rage Confrontation in Auchenflower Goes Viral

A Club Rooted in Community

From empowering sports trainers to supporting life-changing charities, the Broncos continue to demonstrate their commitment to the people of Queensland, proving once again that they’re more than just a football club. Join them in making a difference—on and off the field.

Published 07-February-2025

Brisbane Broncos Secure Future Star in Baxter Best

In a move that has sent ripples through the rugby league community, the Brisbane Broncos have secured the signature of 16-year-old prodigy Baxter Best, younger brother of Newcastle Knights and NSW State of Origin star Bradman Best.

The four-year deal is a major coup for the Broncos, reinforcing their commitment to developing top-tier young talent and ensuring their pathways remain among the strongest in the league.

Read: Le Coin Bistro: A Taste of France in Red Hill

Baxter has already emerged as one of Queensland’s most promising junior players, drawing comparisons to his older brother for his powerful playing style and natural flair. He has consistently stood out in junior competitions, proving his ability to match older and more experienced opponents. His performances in the Cyril Connell Cup and for Queensland’s under-15s schoolboys team have cemented his reputation as a future star in the making.

Bradman and Baxter Best : A Family Legacy in the Making

The Best family name carries significant weight in rugby league circles, thanks to Bradman’s meteoric rise as a powerhouse centre for the Knights and his impactful performances for NSW in the State of Origin arena. Now, Baxter is poised to carve out his own legacy, albeit on the opposite side of the Origin divide.

After the family’s move to Queensland, he became eligible for the Maroons, potentially setting up a future State of Origin rivalry with Bradman. While his older brother has already made his mark in the Blues jersey, Baxter’s journey is just beginning.

A Bright Future with the Broncos

Baxter’s decision to join the Broncos over other NRL suitors underscores the club’s strong reputation for nurturing young talent. This season, he will line up for the Souths Logan Magpies under-17s, where he will face stiffer competition and continue to hone his skills against top opposition. The signing reflects the Broncos’ long-term vision, as they continue to secure players with immense potential and invest in the future of the club.

For the Broncos, the signing is a testament to their long-term vision. By investing in players like Baxter, the club is not only securing its future but also ensuring that its development pathways remain among the strongest in the league.

Read: Broncos’ Cultural Overhaul: Ben Hunt Shares Insights on Maguire’s Tough Pre-Season

As Baxter embarks on his journey with the Broncos, the rugby league world will be watching closely. With his combination of speed, size, and maturity, he has all the tools to follow in his brother’s footsteps and make a name for himself at the highest level.

Published 30-January-2025

Broncos’ Cultural Overhaul: Ben Hunt Shares Insights on Maguire’s Tough Pre-Season

Ben Hunt has detailed the cultural overhaul driving Brisbane’s 2024 ambitions, declaring the Broncos’ pre-season under Michael Maguire the toughest he’s experienced since returning to the club.

Read: Madge Maguire Confirms Adam Reynolds as Brisbane Broncos Captain

Inside the Pre-Season Revolution

New coach Michael Maguire has wasted no time integrating Hunt into the club’s senior leadership group alongside Adam Reynolds, Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Kotoni Staggs. While Reynolds continues to hold the captaincy, Hunt’s inclusion underscores the immense value placed on his experience and deep understanding of the Broncos’ culture.

Reflecting on his decision to return, Hunt shared, “It was always in my heart that if I ever had an opportunity to finish my career here or ever get back, it was something I really wanted to do.” Hunt’s choice to rejoin the Broncos over a lucrative offer from the Dolphins highlights his emotional connection to the club where his NRL journey began.

The Broncos that Hunt rejoins in 2025 bear little resemblance to the team he left in 2017. The tin shed training facility of old has been replaced by a state-of-the-art $27 million headquarters, and the playing roster has undergone a near-complete transformation. Hunt, however, views these changes as an opportunity to contribute rather than a challenge to overcome.

Hunt also confirms that Maguire’s approach has galvanised Brisbane’s star-studded roster. Under Maguire’s leadership, the team is focused on core values that resonate deeply with Hunt’s career. “The big drivers Madge is bringing in are working hard, competing, and never giving up on your mate,” Hunt explained, reflecting on the emphasis of a recent leadership camp that underscores the Broncos’ renewed direction.

Ben Hunt Embraces His Role in a Redemption Mission

Hunt’s return is more than symbolic. With the potential to reach 200 games for the Broncos this season, his immediate focus is on aiding the team’s premiership aspirations. With Ezra Mam suspended for nine games, Hunt will start at five-eighth in Round 1—a role he’s embraced. “I feel like it’s gone full circle with Madge; he obviously gave me my debut jersey and now, I’m a little older but he’s still showing faith in me,” he said.

Read: Why Red Hill Unit Owners Are Staying Longer Than Expected

For fans, his homecoming is a source of both nostalgia and optimism. Hunt’s experience, coupled with the club’s evolution under Maguire, positions him not just as a player but as a bridge connecting the team’s rich history to its ambitions for future success.

Published 24-January-2025

Broncos Roundup: Ezra Mam Back in Red Hill, But Controversy Remains

Ezra Mam is back in Broncos colours, but his return to Red Hill has been met with mixed emotions as the young five-eighth joined his teammates for the first time since his October car crash.

Read: Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

Five-eighth Ezra Mam rejoins Broncos

While the sight of Mam back in Broncos colours was a welcome one for some, his presence reignited the debate surrounding his punishment for driving unlicensed with a drug in his system—an incident that left a young girl with a fractured hip.

Despite the controversy, the Broncos are well within their rights to have Mam train with the squad. Coach Michael Maguire clearly sees value in keeping the talented playmaker engaged and integrated with the team, even though he won’t pull on the Broncos jersey until Round 10. Mam was seen working closely with new recruit Ben Hunt and attack coach Trent Barrett, honing his kicking and passing game.

But Mam’s presence has reignited the debate surrounding his punishment. NRL legends Scott Sattler and Mat Rogers recently weighed in on the timing of Mam’s reintegration. “Going to training is different to playing,” Rogers said on SEN radio. “I’m not saying let him back in (to play), but it’s his job. I don’t think he’ll be playing for the first few months of the season, but he’s still got to do his job. You have to be allowed to go to work.”

Ezra Mam to miss all competitions

The NRL has also ruled out any possibility of a loophole that could have seen Mam play reserve grade during his suspension. Despite the ban stemming from an off-field incident, Mam will be sidelined from all competitions until Round 10.

Ben Hunt hits the ground running

Hunt appears to have arrived at Red Hill in peak form. Reports from Tuesday’s session suggest he was impressive with his kicking game and looked comfortable training in both the halves and at hooker. This versatility will be crucial, as he’s expected to partner Adam Reynolds in the halves until Mam returns, then shift to hooker.

Adam Reynolds prepares for surprise trial

In a surprising move, Reynolds is set for a pre-season appearance. Despite his well-known aversion to trial games, the veteran halfback is expected to feature in the NRL Pre-season Challenge against the Bulldogs. This aims to build his combination with Hunt and ensure a smooth transition into the season. Reynolds is recovering from off-season neck surgery but is expected to be fully fit for Round 1.

Kobe Hetherington’s return and Pat Carrigan’s potential move

Kobe Hetherington’s unexpected retention has sparked speculation about a possible positional switch for captain Patrick Carrigan. Hetherington, initially told he could explore other options, was brought back into the fold by Maguire, who admires his tough playing style. This could see Carrigan, who has impressed at prop for the Pacific Championships, move up front permanently. This would allow Hetherington, a tough defender and reliable tackler, to challenge for the lock position.

Read: NRL’s Suspension of Ezra Mam Sparks Debate: Is Nine Weeks Enough?

With a mix of returning stars, new faces, and potential positional shake-ups, the Broncos pre-season is shaping up to be anything but dull. Fans will be eagerly watching how these storylines develop as the 6 March season opener against the Roosters draws closer.

Published 09-January-2025