NRL Archives - Milton Today

Brisbane Broncos 2026 Season Preview: Suncorp Set to Ignite the Broncos’ Title Defence

In Milton, the NRL season starts before the first whistle.

On Friday night, March 6, the lights will rise over Suncorp Stadium as the Brisbane Broncos launch their premiership defence against the Penrith Panthers — and once again, the spiritual home of rugby league in Queensland will sit at the centre of the NRL world.

The Broncos arrive as defending 2025 premiers, having broken their title drought last season with a grand final win over the Melbourne Storm. Now, the challenge is sustaining that success under head coach Michael Maguire, who enters his second season in charge after delivering silverware in his first year at the helm.

A Champion Core Returns to Milton

Much of the premiership spine remains intact.

Captain Adam Reynolds continues to steer the side with experience and composure, while dynamic fullback Reece Walsh returns after a Clive Churchill Medal performance in the 2025 Grand Final.

In the halves, Reynolds combines with Ezra Mam to give Brisbane speed and unpredictability on the edges, while the forward platform built around Patrick Carrigan remains central to the club’s defensive identity.

There are changes around the edges. Selwyn Cobbo has moved to the Dolphins for 2026, Kobe Hetherington has joined Manly, and veteran Martin Taupau retired at season’s end. New additions including Grant Anderson, Tom Duffy and Aublix Tawha add depth as Brisbane reshapes its rotation.

Hooker Billy Walters is recovering from an ACL injury and is expected to miss the early rounds, while Brendan Piakura is listed as targeting a Round 3 return.

Round 1: Under Lights at Lang Park

The 2026 campaign opens with a preliminary final rematch that already carries narrative weight.

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said in a club statement last year the club could not have scripted a better start.

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

“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.”

Penrith also enter the season among the premiership contenders, with halfback Nathan Cleary cleared to play in the season opener following a successful judiciary challenge earlier this month.

For Milton, it means a Friday night crowd, a national television audience, and the first major sporting event of the NRL calendar played on home soil.

Three of Four at Home

Brisbane’s early draw ensures Suncorp Stadium will feature heavily in the opening month:

Round 1 – Friday, March 6: Panthers (Suncorp Stadium)
Round 2 – Thursday, March 12: Eels (Suncorp Stadium)
Round 3 – Friday, March 20: Storm (AAMI Park)
Round 4 – Friday, March 27: Dolphins (Suncorp Stadium)

Three home games in the first four rounds provide the Broncos with a chance to establish momentum in front of strong attendances — and for the Milton precinct to settle back into its familiar game-day pulse.

Projected Round 1 Outlook

Official team lists are confirmed in the week of each match, but based on trial form and 2025 combinations, a projected Round 1 line-up could resemble last year’s premiership backbone.

Walsh at fullback, Reynolds and Mam in the halves, Carrigan anchoring the middle, and a forward rotation including Payne Haas, Corey Jensen and Jordan Riki would represent continuity rather than overhaul. Interchange roles may feature emerging forwards such as Xavier Willison and Ben Talty alongside new recruit Aublix Tawha.

The emphasis is stability — not reinvention.

A Big Year for Suncorp

Beyond Round 1, Suncorp Stadium will again host some of the sport’s biggest fixtures in 2026. For Milton, that means a sustained calendar of major events stretching well beyond the premiership season.

Magic Round returns from May 15–17. State of Origin Game III is scheduled for July 8 at Suncorp, with Women’s State of Origin Game II to be played in Brisbane on May 14. The Broncos NRLW side opens its home campaign at Suncorp on July 4 as part of a double-header. Later in the year, Brisbane will host the Men’s and Women’s Rugby League World Cup Finals on November 15.

Milton’s Front-Row Seat

For residents and business owners around Castlemaine Street and Caxton Street, the Broncos’ title defence isn’t a distant storyline — it plays out at the end of the road, amidst a weekly rhythm that defines Brisbane’s winter sporting calendar.

The Broncos are favourites — and deservedly so after 2025.

But in rugby league, favourites are hunted.

On March 6, under lights at Suncorp, Milton will once again become the epicentre of Queensland rugby league as the chase for back-to-back titles begins.

Published 24-February-2026

Brisbane Broncos Coach Michael Maguire Linked To England Rugby League Role Amid Growing Speculation

Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos Fans 4Life/Facebook

Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire has been linked to the England national rugby league head coaching job, with reports from Australia and the United Kingdom suggesting he has shown tentative interest if the position becomes available.

Rising Interest From Down Under

Reports from Australian outlets say Maguire has interest in the England job if the RFL moves on from Shaun Wane. No formal talks have been reported. The speculation grew after England’s 3–0 Ashes loss to Australia and the RFL’s post-series review.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos Fans 4Life/Facebook*

Wane stays in place during the review and debate continues about leadership before the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Maguire’s track record includes a Broncos premiership this year, leading New Zealand from 2018 to 2023, and guiding the New South Wales Blues to a 2024 State of Origin win.

A Familiar Face To English Fans

Maguire previously coached Wigan Warriors and won Super League honours, which raised his profile in England. His name draws attention among supporters who recall his successful spell with the club. Love Rugby League reports that Maguire will travel to the United Kingdom for a coaching development course.

He will use the trip to gather information before the Broncos’ World Club Challenge against Hull KR. The timing of this visit has fed speculation about potential contact with RFL officials. Reports add that whether Maguire would pursue the role remains uncertain, as his commitments to the Broncos are understood to take priority.

Wane Stands Firm Amid Criticism

Shaun Wane has stated he intends to continue leading England and said after the final Ashes match that he believes he remains the right person for the job. Senior players, including captain George Williams, have voiced their support for him despite the series loss.

All Out Rugby League reported that former player Bryan Fletcher believes Maguire’s move to England is unlikely because of the difficulty of managing both a club and national side. Fletcher said he doubted Brisbane would allow a dual-role arrangement, calling it unrealistic given the demands of the NRL season.

A Wait-And-See Situation For Fans

At this stage, the situation remains one of speculation. While Maguire’s record makes him a logical name to appear in discussions, there has been no confirmation from the Broncos or the RFL of any approach. England’s review process continues, and Wane remains in post while officials assess the program’s direction.

Any formal consideration of Maguire would depend on the review’s outcome and his own long-term plans with Brisbane. Fans and commentators in both Australia and England are following the story closely to see whether Maguire will be formally linked to the England role in the coming months.

Published 11-November-2025

How a Stadium Upgrade and Super Bar Will Redefine Brisbane Entertainment

Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

Backed by music promoters, sporting bodies, and the state government, a multi-million dollar plan to expand Suncorp Stadium and build an immersive new sports bar will reshape Milton into a major economic hub for live entertainment.

The push for this revitalisation has gained significant momentum, with the Queensland government confirming it will proceed with major upgrades to the iconic stadium. This decision follows widespread calls from community leaders and prominent figures in both the music and sporting industries.

The work is set to be completed before Brisbane hosts the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, ensuring the precinct is ready for the world stage. Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner supported the move, stating that an upgraded venue benefits not just sport but a whole range of events that bring the community together.

Answering the Call for Global Entertainment

For years, Brisbane music fans have watched major international tours bypass the city. Music industry leaders have identified Suncorp Stadium’s current capacity and infrastructure as significant hurdles. Promoters from giants like Live Nation and Frontier Touring explained that bringing blockbuster stadium tours to Australia is an expensive and challenging exercise.

They argue that an expanded Suncorp Stadium would make Brisbane a more financially sustainable and attractive destination. According to Frontier Touring CEO Dion Brant, increasing the number of seats and adding a roof would be crucial. Such enhancements would not only help offset the high costs of international tours but also reduce weather-related risks and insurance expenses for promoters. These changes would play a decisive role in convincing the world’s biggest artists to include Brisbane on their tour schedules, ensuring the city is no longer overlooked.

A Modern Fortress for Sport and Fans

The vision for the precinct extends beyond the stadium walls and into the heart of the community on Caxton Street. The National Rugby League is moving forward with plans to establish a cutting-edge sports bar at the site of the Beetson Hotel. ARL Commission chief Peter V’landys described the project as a future Mecca for sports fans, designed to be the best and biggest sports bar in the country.

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo added that the venue will provide a completely immersive experience, using modern LED and sound technology to make patrons feel like they are at the game. This development complements the passionate calls from rugby league legends for the stadium itself to be upgraded. Former champion Johnathan Thurston suggested an expansion to 70,000 seats would be needed to keep pace with Queensland’s growth and its ability to host world-class events. Broncos captain Adam Reynolds also used a major public platform to call for a bigger stadium, reflecting the high demand from local fans.

Building a Precinct for Generations

The planned upgrades are being framed as more than just a renovation; they represent a long-term investment in the community’s future. Former Queensland Premier Peter Beattie, who oversaw the stadium’s last major revamp, stated that an expansion to 65,000 seats with a roof would cement its status as Australia’s premier rectangular venue. He believes such a move would create a forward-thinking image for Brisbane and allow it to genuinely compete with Sydney and Melbourne for major national events.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a lasting legacy from the 2032 Games that benefits Queenslanders for decades. By improving capacity, accessibility, and overall quality, the project aims to ensure the Milton precinct remains the spiritual home of sport and a vibrant centre for culture and entertainment for generations to come.

Published Date 16-October-2025

Can The Broncos End the 18-Season Drought and Win the NRL Telstra Premiership?

It was 1992 when the Brisbane Broncos won their first Premiership, led by Alfie Langer who had taken over as skipper when Gene Miles retired. Going back-to-back in 1993 and winning the Super League in 1997. Following up again with a Premiership in 1998 and another at the turn of the millenium in 2000 and again in 2006.

That’s 18 seasons ago. Time flies. Let’s not forget Kevvie put together the majority of the current Broncos side including bringing Reece Walsh from the Warriors, and Walters led them to a Grand Final in 2023.

Then he passed the baton to Madge.

Madge, aka “enemy numero uno” having led the Blues in a massive comeback win against the Maroons, in the 2024 Origin Series. Plenty of locals could not forget that and surely Madge kept his head down for that very reason.

The decision to appoint Maguire was brilliant! A masterclass move by the Broncos Board.

So now after quite a rollercoaster season, where at times the Broncos looked dire yet have far more often looked unbeatable. It’s only in recent weeks though that we have fully understood the resilience and sheer determination of this group.

The Broncos beat the Storm in the final game of the regular season to make the 4, 30-14, at Suncorp and after the game, skipper Paddy Carrigan spoke about the deluge of goal-line defence they had practiced in training.

That’s where their backbone has been developed, the layers of determination, and now the belief that no matter how high the mountain, it can always be climbed.

The “Mission Impossible” of coming back from 14-0 against the 4 time Premiers, now seems a walk in the park compared to the hole the Broncos were in against the Minor Premiers, but in reality both comebacks were miracles of belief and determination.

How much was Paddy Carrigan missed last week (and Billy Walters), and how much fresher will he be as a result? At the same time Payne Haas desperately needs a week off, but give us one more big one, Payne!

King & Loiero vs Carrigan & Haas – Broncos win.

In that final regular season game at Suncorp, Jahrome Hughes was coming off an injury break, and it would be fair to assume he’s now back to full capacity.

Munster & Hughes vs Hunt & Reynolds – Tough call.

Papenhuyzen + Howarth + Meaney vs Walsh + Staggs + Shibabsaki – Broncos win

Warbrick + Coates vs Karapani + Mariner – Broncos win

Grant Atkins did a great job of the Broncos-Panthers last week and is given the honours in the middle for the Grand Final.

18 seasons is a long time. It’s time to put that to bed, boys!

The Grand Final of the NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off at 6.30pm Brisbane Time, this Sunday, October 5. BE VERY CAREFUL AS DAYLIGHT SAVING STARTS ON SUNDAY!
The game will be broadcast live on Nine, Foxtel and Kayo.

Published 2-October-2025

Broncos Belief is Unbeatable

14-0 down at half-time, the Broncos were massively behind the 8 ball against this crazy efficient Panthers outfit. The first half had been completed set after completed set from the Panthers, barely a squeak from the Broncos attack.

Then a beautiful grubber from Reynolds to enable the monster that is Kotoni Staggs to open the Broncos scoring seven minutes after half-time, converted with the worst kick of Reece Walsh’s season(a red flag for what was to come).

Increased pressure by the Broncos then became handbags between Cleary and Mam, with Liam Martin coming in with a swinging arm on Ezra — extraordinarily no sin bin!

52,491 inside Suncorp that Locky said was the best atmosphere of any game he has seen there. That’s a fairly big call from Mr Lockyer!

Then chaos ensued like a pin ball machine with a Cleary knock down and Xavier Willison steamed over with 10 minutes to go.

Walsh hit the post with the conversion, one he would kick 9 out of 10 on, to make it 14-10 with 10 minutes left.

One converted try boys!

Smoothy’s punt almost caused a Panthers disaster but they worked the ball out.

Then a knock down by the Panthers as Walsh would have been in, and from the scrum, Walsh on the wing throws a hail mary backwards whilst being tackled, and the ball ends up with Deine Mariner who powered through traffic to dive over when he had no right to.

Hysteria at Suncorp, Walshy tells Reyno to take the kick. Why? The bloke had barely got back into training, nevermind practised his touchline goal kicks, but the class of Adam Reynolds when the big moments come, was the point.

With 3 minutes 40 left. On the right touchline.

Reyno you beauuuuty!

16-14 to the Broncos

Terrible penalty call on Staggs let the Panthers in for one more set but the boys held out.

Grand Final, here we come!

Broncos vs Panthers at Suncorp Should be a Classic Prelim Final

With that extraordinary comeback against the minor premiers two weeks ago in Canberra still fresh in everyone’s minds, a potentially even bigger test faces the Brisbane Broncos this Sunday at Suncorp Stadium in the Preliminary Final.

Just as against the Raiders, the Broncos are underdogs with the Bookies despite being at home. SEE VIDEO HERE.

The Bronco’s 14th man, the Suncorp faithful, will need to be at their most inspiring best to drag the boys home in this one. The Panthers have been on an absolute tear since starting the season with only two wins from their first eight games.

The Panthers have won 9 out of their last 10 games against the Broncos.

However, the notorious defensive weakness of the Panthers on the left edge, and the ability of Kotoni Staggs to exploit such opportunities, appears a big edge.

Gus Gould felt the Bulldogs should have exploited that more last week and there’s no doubt To’o, Sorensen, Talagi and McLean will be fully expectant of a Tsunami of offense coming their way.

On the other side of the coin, six first half tries at Accor Stadium against the Bulldogs was a demonstration of the Panthers attacking flair and the Broncos defense will need to be at it’s absolute best to mitigate Nathan Cleary and co.

That specific issue with Reynolds, Mam, Cobbo, Willison, Madden and Gosiewski back all at the same time — we can only trust that Madge has that sextet match hardened to be ready for this huge game. It’s highly likely that all six will improve for the outing if the Broncos make it to the Grand Final.

How fit is Payne Haas? Can Reece Walsh recycle the determination burning inside him when he came back on from the Sin Bin in Canberra? How much will the Broncos miss Paddy Carrigan and Billy Walters? Both have been in great form and will certainly be missed.

Huge conjecture about Adam Reynolds coming back(the Broncos have won all five games without him) and his apparent lack of sync with Reece Walsh, feels like a media beat up and we back Reyno all the way to help Walsh and his team-mates find holes in the Panthers defence.

Has Selwyn Cobbo’s stint at Wynnum Manly, got him ready for this one?

It’s 19 years since the Broncos last won a Premiership. If they can end the 2025 hopes of the Cleary family, they will be one game away.

The game will be broadcast live on Sunday on Nine, Nine Now, Kayo and Foxtel. Kick off is at 4.05pm.

Published 25-Sept-2025

Back at Suncorp: Broncos Need the Win to Keep Finals Hopes Alive

The Brisbane Broncos return to Suncorp Stadium this Friday night with more than pride on the line — they’re fighting to keep their season alive. Officially sitting just outside the top eight, the Broncos need a win over the South Sydney Rabbitohs to stay in the finals race. Against a Wayne Bennett–coached Rabbitohs outfit that’s reshuffling its deck, this high-pressure Round 22 clash under the lights has all the ingredients of a turning point for Brisbane — and for fans across the suburbs, it’s a night not to miss.

Who’s In and Who’s Not

For the Broncos, head coach Michael Maguire has opted for stability with a hint of spark, bringing Selwyn Cobbo and Deine Mariner back onto the wings in a move that signals a return to pace and finishing power out wide. Jesse Arthars and Josiah Karapani make way and shift to the extended bench, while the rest of the backline remains consistent, with Reece Walsh at fullback and Adam Reynolds steering the side alongside Ezra Mam in the halves. Maguire has stuck with his preferred forward rotation, anchored by Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan, and Jordan Riki, showing confidence in their ability to win the middle battle. Notably, there are no fresh injuries, and the squad appears settled — a sign Brisbane is banking on cohesion to deliver under pressure.

For South Sydney, Wayne Bennett has made more dramatic changes, reflective of a side still searching for answers. Bayleigh Bentley-Hape returns to the wing, Jamie Humphreys is recalled at halfback, and Jai Arrow shifts into the front row in an effort to stiffen the Rabbitohs’ middle defence. Ryan Gray takes over the hooking duties, while Jacob Host comes into the second row. Perhaps the boldest move is naming Thomas Fletcher to debut from the bench — a clear signal that Bennett is looking to blood new talent and shake things up after a disappointing stretch of form. These changes suggest a focus on energy and adaptability, with Bennett turning to youth and positional reshuffles to reignite momentum.

The Stakes: Why This Round 22 Clash Matters

For Brisbane, this match isn’t just another fixture — it’s a must-win in every sense. Their recent performances have shown potential but not consistency, and slipping further down the ladder could all but end their finals campaign. Backed by a loyal Suncorp crowd and a healthy squad, this is their opportunity to make a statement.

The Rabbitohs, meanwhile, come in bruised but dangerous. They’ve been sliding on the ladder and need to reset their identity. While the squad looks different this week, they still have threats across the park and the advantage of a coach who knows how to dig deep in pressure moments.

Key Battles to Watch

Reece Walsh vs Jamie Humphreys – Walsh’s pace and ball-playing up against Humphreys’ composure as he returns to the starting halfback role.
Cobbo & Mariner vs Bentley-Hape & Johnston – Expect fireworks on the edges, with both teams relying on speed and sharp finishing.
Middle third control – The engine rooms collide with Haas, Carrigan and Willison aiming to dominate Arrow, Keppie and Host.

And then there’s Adam Reynolds, whose game management and kicking game could prove the difference in a contest likely to go down to the final 20.

Home Crowd Advantage

There’s no underestimating what a Friday night at Suncorp can do for Brisbane’s energy. Returning players like Cobbo and Mariner are built for these stages, and Gehamat Shibasaki, once a Rabbitoh himself, will be out to prove he belongs in the maroon and gold. Add in homegrown firebrands like Kobe Hetherington off the bench, and this has all the makings of a night when local support could truly tip the scales.

🎥 Watch the Official Match Preview

Click here to see the Round 22 Broncos vs Rabbitohs preview video – perfect for fans wanting a quick breakdown of what’s at stake.

Final Word

Kick-off is set for 8pm AEST, Friday 1 August 2025, at Suncorp Stadium. For the Broncos and their supporters, it’s now or never. A win keeps the finals dream alive — and proves they’re more than just potential on paper. With both teams under pressure and plenty of new faces on show, this one promises tension, talent, and a whole lot of heart.

All Eyes on Suncorp as Broncos Brace for Eels Challenge

Haas is back, Arthars returns, and the Broncos are chasing a sixth straight win to keep a top-four finish in sight. Friday night at Suncorp is set for fireworks as they take on the Eels!

Broncos Reinforcements Arrive at the Right Time

The Broncos have named a strong squad for the July 25 8pm clash at Suncorp Stadium, with several key names returning to the line-up. Payne Haas returns to the front row after a rest, Jesse Arthars is back on the wing, and Corey Jensen joins the bench — giving Brisbane added firepower through the middle.

Xavier Willison retains his starting spot, and the backline remains largely unchanged, with Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs and Deine Mariner all in solid form. Coach Michael Maguire has opted for balance and consistency, with the returning players providing just the right boost as the finals approach.

Currently sitting fifth on the NRL ladder, the Broncos are well positioned to push for a top-four finish. But every point counts — and with a home crowd behind them, Friday’s game is one they can’t afford to let slip.

Eels Welcome Moses, But Finals Hopes Are Gone

While the Broncos have momentum, the Eels are simply fighting for pride. Rooted to the bottom of the table, Parramatta’s season has been one to forget — but the return of halfback Mitch Moses offers a glimmer of hope. He’ll partner Blaize Talagi in the halves, with Dylan Brown left out of this week’s squad.

Coach Jason Ryles is turning to youth and energy to reignite the Eels, bringing in fresh faces like Luca Moretti and Toni Mataele, and relying on senior forwards like Junior Paulo and J’maine Hopgood to hold the middle.

The backline isn’t short on danger, with Josh Addo-Carr and Will Penisini capable of turning the game with a single play. But cohesion has been lacking all year, and the Eels will need to bring their A-game to upset Brisbane on home turf.

Key Match-Ups to Watch

Middle battle: Payne Haas vs Junior Paulo — two powerhouse props who can shift momentum with a single carry. Expect fireworks in the first 20 minutes.

Halfback duel: Adam Reynolds will look to control the game with his kicking and composure, while Mitch Moses brings speed and flair. The contrast in styles could define the match tempo.

Back three shootout: Reece Walsh’s pace and instinct make him a constant threat. Parramatta will need to keep him contained if they want any chance of controlling the scoreboard.

What’s at Stake

For the Broncos, this is a must-win to maintain their push into the finals. With tougher opponents ahead, securing the two points at home is non-negotiable. Fans will be looking for a confident, dominant performance — especially with a full-strength forward pack back on the field.

For the Eels, it’s less about ladder position and more about showing resilience. With finals no longer in the picture, playing spoiler to a finals-bound side like Brisbane could be the fire-starter they need to finish the season with pride.

Broncos vs Eels – Game Day Info

Date: Friday, 25 July 2025
Time: 8:00pm AEST kick-off
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Public gates open: 6:30pm
Broadcast: Live on Channel 9 and Kayo

Final Word

The Broncos are coming in hot, with fresh legs and finals ambitions. The Eels are arriving wounded but unpredictable. Whether you’re in the stands at Suncorp or tuning in from the couch, this Friday night fixture promises action, energy, and a few fireworks.

Broncos fans — the stage is set. Now it’s time to settle in and enjoy the ride.

Published 24-July-2025

Wally Lewis’ Long-Lost Jersey Returns for One More Maroons Moment

For 45 years, rugby league legend Wally Lewis believed his iconic maroon jersey from the first-ever State of Origin match was lost to time. But in a twist worthy of Origin folklore, the treasured item resurfaced, just in time to inspire Queensland.

Read: Broncos Aim to Rebuild Trust as Warriors Return to Suncorp

When the Maroons took on New South Wales in Sydney to claim the 2025 Origin series, the jersey, once worn by “The King” himself, was the final image the current Queensland squad saw before taking the field. It was a powerful reminder of legacy, pride, and the enduring spirit of Origin.

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The rediscovery came during a painstaking search through a storage unit, where Wally and his wife Lynda had spent hours sorting through bags and boxes, nearly giving up hope. Then, tucked inside a cardboard box labelled ‘rent-a-clothes’, they found it: the original jersey, safely sealed in a zip-locked bag. The moment moved them deeply, with the couple overcome by emotion.

Photo credit: Wally Lewis Official/Instagram

Rather than risk losing it again, the couple decided to carry the jersey with them by hand, keeping it close every step of the journey to Sydney.

Straight from storage and still bearing the wear of history, the jersey featured in a guard of honour during the Wednesday night match. Lewis stood alongside 16 other players from that first Origin clash in 1980, a powerful tribute to the game’s roots.

Lewis, who has long been considering donating his personal memorabilia collection, saw that moment as part of a larger gesture—sharing his story and the state’s sporting heritage with the fans. Suncorp Stadium had already expressed interest in displaying some of the pieces.

Adding to the emotion of the night, Lewis watched one of his favourite current players, Cameron Munster, take the field while carrying the recent loss of his father. Lewis has previously said Munster’s talent ranks among the best he’s seen, and Wednesday had proved to be a defining moment in the playmaker’s career.

Read: Sunday Sunshine at Suncorp: Broncos to Sunburn Sharks?

From a dusty storage unit to the heart of a stadium filled with passion, Wally Lewis’ lost jersey has found its way back into Queensland’s story, right where it belongs.

Updated 14-July-2025

Broncos Aim to Rebuild Trust as Warriors Return to Suncorp

Brisbane fans are restless, and with good reason. A string of listless defeats through May and June has dragged the Broncos from early-season contenders to mid-table uncertainty.

Last weekend’s 34–28 escape act against Cronulla halted the skid—but one stirring comeback won’t erase eight weeks of frustration. Saturday afternoon’s visit from the fourth‑placed One New Zealand Warriors feels less like a celebration and more like a referendum on where this squad—and head coach Michael Maguire—really stands.

Kick-off is 3:00 pm AEST on Saturday, 28 June at Suncorp Stadium.

Team news at a glance

The Broncos have named the same 17-player squad that edged the Sharks last round. Key personnel include Reece Walsh at fullback; the backline of Josiah Karapani, Kotoni Staggs, Gehamat Shibasaki, and Jesse Arthars; with the halves pairing Ezra Mam and captain Adam Reynolds. The forward pack features Corey Jensen, Cory Paix, and powerhouse Payne Haas flanked by Brendan Piakura and Jordan Riki, while Patrick Carrigan anchors the edge. The bench consists of Billy Walters, Kobe Hetherington, Xavier Willison, and Jack Gosiewski, with reserves Tyson Smoothy and Selwyn Cobbo listed in the 18.

The Warriors have made three changes for this clash. Ed Kosi returns on the wing, Rocco Berry slots into centre, and Kurt Capewell joins in the back row. Unfortunately for Auckland fans, Dallin Watene‑Zelezniak is sidelined with an ankle issue, and Moala Graham‑Taufa also misses out. The spine includes Charnze Nicoll‑Klokstad, Roger Tuivasa‑Sheck, Adam Pompey, Harris‑Tavita, Luke Metcalf, and James Fisher‑Harris, with Wayde Egan at hooker. Marata Niukore partners Fisher‑Harris in the middle before Capewell and Jacob Laban settle the edges. The bench features Te Maire Martin, Jackson Ford, Demitric Vaimauga, and Leka Halasima, who also serves as 18th man alongside Tanah Boyd.

No late withdrawals were reported in Friday’s 24‑hour cut-off, giving both sides a clean bill of health heading into the weekend.

Form guide & context

The Broncos had managed just one win in six matches prior to their dramatic comeback over Cronulla and conceded an average of 26 points across that bleak stretch. Their ladder position reflects the slump: firmly outside the top eight.

In contrast, the Warriors sit fourth with 24 competition points. Despite recent losses to Penrith and Melbourne, Andrew Webster’s men have claimed five wins from six matches on Australian soil this season, including Magic Round performances at Suncorp.

For those who missed last weekend’s rollercoaster, the official NRL highlight reel captures Walsh’s spark and defensive heroics in the dying stages.

Key battles to watch

Reece Walsh vs. Charnze Nicoll‑Klokstad – Walsh’s dynamic support play and kicking will challenge CNK’s dependable defence and metres on return.
Payne Haas & Patrick Carrigan vs. James Fisher‑Harris & Marata Niukore – Brisbane’s engine-room tired quickly during the slump; losing this contest early would intensify the pressure.
Adam Reynolds vs. Luke Metcalf – Reynolds’ precision kicking and control will be pitted against Metcalf’s fresh legs and instinctive broken game.

ROUND 17 PREVIEW

Tactical snapshot

Maguire has slowed the Broncos’ tempo, emphasising direct carries from Jensen and Haas before shifting play wide to Walsh and Mam. Conversely, the Warriors will target edge defenders with Harris‑Tavita orchestrating multiple shifts and Capewell offering line-breaking threats. Both teams rank poorly in six‑again penalties, so discipline and structured sets will be key. Whoever sustains composure under pressure and avoids repeat ruck infringements should dominate field position.

What’s at stake for Brisbane

A win would pull the Broncos within striking distance of the top eight—and give coach Maguire a much-needed buffer in the eyes of a sceptical fan base. A lacklustre display, however, would confirm fears that last weekend’s comeback was more adrenaline rush than a genuine turning point. From Red Hill to Newmarket, the question is clear: can this team be trusted again? Saturday promises an answer.

How to follow

Kick‑off: 3:00 pm AEST, Saturday 28 June
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Broadcast: Nine, Fox League, Kayo

Final word

The Broncos arrive burdened with pressure but buoyed by a flash of late-game fight. The Warriors come structured and composed—proven winners in Queensland territory. If Brisbane’s forwards can match the energy of Fisher‑Harris and Niukore over 80 minutes, Walsh and Mam may convert that grunt into points. But should the Warriors set the tone early, Suncorp could be less witness to redemption than resignation. This is more than a game—it’s the Broncos’ identity on trial.

Published 27-06-2025